Effect of Different Modes of High Intensity Interval Training on Appetite‐Related Hormones, Appetite Perception, and Anthropometric Measures in Overweight and Obese Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background and Aims This research aimed to assess the effectiveness of high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) and high‐intensity functional training (HIFT) on appetite‐related hormones (Ghrelin, peptide tyrosine–tyrosine (PYY), and glucagon‐like peptide‐1(GLP‐1)), appetite perception, and anthropometric measures in overweight and obese young men. Methods Thirty male participants (age: 22.6 ± 1.7 years; weight: 101.4 ± 7.4 kg; body mass index (BMI): 31.1 ± 2.3 kg/m 2 ) were randomly allocated into HIIT ( n = 10), HIFT ( n = 10), and control groups (con) ( n = 10). The intervention groups received supervised training three times a week for 8 weeks, including running‐based HIIT based on maximal aerobic speed (MAS) or HIFT (six bodyweight exercises). Training intensity in both groups was monitored using BORG‐CR10 perceived exertion scale (RPE). Measurements were taken at baseline and after an 8‐week training period. A mixed ANOVA analysis was used to analyze the data. Results HIIT and HIFT protocols significantly increased plasma levels of PYY, GLP‐1, feeling of hunger, and improved body fat percentage (BF%), waist and hip circumference, VO ₂ max, and vVO₂max compared to the control ( p < 0.05). However, there were no significant changes in ghrelin levels ( p = 0.53), appetite ratings (fullness ( p = 0.48), satiety ( p = 0.72), and desire to eat ( p = 0.20), weight ( p = 0.14), and fat‐free mass(FFM) ( p = 0.11). Additionally, BMI, and fat mass (FM) decreased significantly in the HIFT group, compared with the control ( p < 0.05). Conclusion Overall, the findings of this study indicated that HIIT and HIFT increased fasting levels of GLP‐1 and PYY, heightened hunger perception, and improved body composition and performance. HIIT showed relatively greater percent changes in PYY, GLP‐1, feeling of hunger, and performance, while HIFT had larger percent changes in anthropometric outcomes. Trial Registration: IRCT20191207045644N2. Registration date: 2024/03/04. URL: https://www.irct.ir/search/result?query=IRCT20191207045644N2 https://www.irct.ir/search/result?query=IRCT20191207045644N2 .