Non-randomised trial, 2026
Does high-intensity interval training help women with PMDD?
In this study of 35 women with PMDD, 4 weeks of high-intensity interval training significantly reduced symptom severity, pain, and inflammation markers. There was no control group, so we cannot be certain the improvement came from exercise alone.
What they did
Single-group pre-test post-test study with 35 women (mean age 23.51±1.88 years) with PMDD. All participants completed 4 weeks of supervised high-intensity interval training, 5 sessions per week. Each session used 30-second high-intensity intervals alternating with recovery periods at 80-90% maximum heart rate.
What they found
All measured outcomes showed statistically significant improvements (all p<0.05). These were: Daily Record of Severity of Problems total score, Visual Analogue Scale menstrual pain intensity, and serum C-reactive protein (an inflammation marker). All three measures decreased significantly.
What it means for you
High-intensity interval training appeared effective for reducing PMDD symptoms and inflammation. This is a weak design because there was no control group and the sample was small. Improvement could come from factors other than exercise, such as attention or lifestyle changes during the study period.
35
Number of women enrolled
4 weeks
Duration of HIIT training
5 sessions/week
Training frequency
About the study
- Original title
- Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) in Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): An Experimental Study
- Authors
- Sanjeevani Konda, Ashwini Bulbuli
- Journal
- International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology
- Year
- 2026
- Study design
- Non-randomised trial
- Participants
- 35
- What was tested
- 4 weeks of supervised high-intensity interval training, 5 sessions weekly, 30-second intervals at 80-90% maximum heart rate
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.25258/ijddt.16.40s.79
Topics
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