# High-intensity training vs. low-intensity training for patients with anxiety: a randomised controlled trial

## TL;DR

This study compares high-intensity and low-intensity training for reducing anxiety symptoms and improving health in people with anxiety disorders.

## Contribution

The study introduces a randomized controlled trial comparing high- and low-intensity training for anxiety treatment.

## Key findings

- High-intensity training may reduce anxiety symptoms more effectively than low-intensity training.
- Both training types will be evaluated for their impact on blood pressure and adherence.
- Results will be measured at baseline, after 4 weeks, and 6 months post-intervention.

## Abstract

This protocol was developed to describe the design of a randomised controlled trial that will examine the clinical efficacy of a 4-week comparison of high-intensity vs. low-intensity physical training for people suffering from anxiety. The hypothesis is that the high-intensity group will have greater benefit in terms of reduced anxiety symptoms, improved physical health (blood pressure) and better adherence.

Thirty adults aged 18 to 70 years diagnosed with an anxiety disorder will be recruited for this study. Participants will be randomised into an intervention group (high-intensity training) and a control group (low-intensity training). Randomisation will be performed using counterbalanced block randomisation in a 1:1 ratio, stratified by sex. Both groups will perform 4 weeks of twice-weekly training supervised by an exercise physiologist. The primary outcome will be the total score on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the total score on the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). The secondary outcomes include blood-pressure changes and adherence. Evaluations will be performed at baseline and following 4 weeks of the interventions, and 6 months after the termination of the intervention period (secondary endpoint).

By investigating the clinical efficacy of a 4-week training intervention, we hope to provide applicable and generalisable knowledge about the efficacy of physical training for people suffering from anxiety disorders.

Clinical Trials NCT06881758. Registered on 17 March 2025.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13063-026-09472-2.