Can Really Intense Interval Training Slow The Growth of Cancer Cells? A New Study Says Yes

To conduct their study, researchers separated a group of male colorectal cancer survivors into two groups — one participated in just one HIIT session and the other engaged in HIIT sessions three times a week for a month. The training sessions consisted of a 10-minute warm-up and four rounds of intense cycling for four minutes, with three minutes of recovery in between each round.

What they found out was pretty incredible.

Researchers collected blood from participants before and after their HIIT sessions and found that, indeed, after the workout — serum (or what’s left in blood after red blood cells are removed) stunted the growth of cancer cells. What this suggests, according to study authors, is that HIIT may change the environment for cancer cells — making growth more challenging. What’s more, the people who participated in just one session had similar results to the group who participated in a months-worth of sessions.

Even though this study involved only colorectal cancer survivors, lead researcher James Devin, Ph.D., told Runners World that the reduction in cancer cell growth is not likely exclusive to people who have already had cancer. He pointed out that similar studies have shown that certain exercises can also reduce the growth of prostate cancer.

In July 2018, a major long-term study came out confirming what many of us already suspected — that eating healthy and exercising were the most significant factors in reducing cancer risk. These healthy lifestyle choices result in a 12% reduction in overall cancer risk, a 14% reduction in breast cancer risk and a 12% reduction in prostate cancer risk. “The reality of this is that none of it is all that new … it’s just that these studies give us more scientific evidence that what we know is right, is right,” Dr. Elizabeth Comen, a medical oncologist and advisor to SurvivorNet, said at the time. “If you lead an overall healthier lifestyle, you have reduction in risk of cancer, particularly for several of the common cancers.”

But Dr. Comen added a bit of guidance that’s important to consider for anyone looking to change their diet and exercise habits, especially for those now looking to incorporate intense workouts into their exercise routines.

“What that means for you as an individual is important for you to discuss with your doctor,” Dr. Comen said. Most of us can afford to fix up some unhealthy habits … so talk to your doctor about it. They can help.

Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.

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