Loughborough University scientists believe it may be possible to get fitter and healthier by doing even less exercise than they first thought.

Studies have proved that just one hour of High Intensity Training (HIT) over a two week period can benefit overweight people.

That involves 10 one minute bursts of fairly intense exercise, with a one minute rest in between, three times in each week, on say a bike.

But Loughborough scientists believe it may be possible to get the same health benefits from just two sessions per week.

The research by scientists in the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences is part of a £5m project being carried out by the Leicester-Loughborough Diet, Lifestyle and Physical Activity Biomedical Research Unit (BRU) and funded by the National Institute of Health Research.

James King PhD, Senior Research Associate in the BRU at Loughborough University, said: “A lot of studies have shown that you can get benefits in terms of diabetes outcomes, insulin sensitivity and glucose control with three sessions a week over a two week period.

“We are now saying, well actually can we get benefits with even less, from just two sessions a week?

“So we have got a study set up where we will have two groups, and one will do HIT three times a week and the other will do it two times a week over a two week period.

“We can then compare the two and see if there are any benefits for the latter group.

“We want to find out what is the least someone can get away with and still show some benefit.”

The researchers are looking for 30 male volunteers, with 15 per group, to take part in the study. They want people aged between 18 and 50 and who are overweight, with a body mass index over 28. Travel costs will be reimbursed.

Anyone interested in taking part in the study should contact James King. Tel: 01509 226324. Email: J.A.King@lboro.ac.uk

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