Key result
High-intensity interval training and combined training both reduced body fat (0.5%), but only combined training increased muscle strength (29%) and fast walking speed (5%).
Why the study?
The comparative effects of high-intensity interval training versus combined training on physical function, body composition, and muscle strength in obese postmenopausal women were unclear.
Does high-intensity interval training improve physical function, body composition, and muscle strength compared to combined training in obese postmenopausal women?
RCT (n=24)
Does high-intensity interval training improve physical function, body composition, and muscle strength compared to combined training in obese postmenopausal women?
Combined training is superior to high-intensity interval training for improving muscular strength and fast walking speed in obese postmenopausal women, though both protocols similarly improve body composition.
Combined training should be prioritized over HIIT alone for strength and mobility in obese postmenopausal women; extends RCT evidence on multimodal protocols.
OBJECTIVES: This study compared the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with effects of combined training (CT) on physical function, body composition, and muscle strength in obese postmenopausal women (PW) (trial registration: NCT03200639). METHODS: PW were randomized to CT (n = 12) and HIIT (n = 12). The CT group performed 30 minutes of moderate walking at 70% of maximum heart rate (MHR) and five resistance exercises at 70% of one repetition maximum (1RM) for 12 weeks. The HIIT group performed 10 sets of vigorous exercises (30 seconds (s) of stair climbing and 30 s of body weight squats) at >80% MHR interspersed by a light walk (recovery period at 60% MHR). RESULTS: Both groups reduced body fat percentage (0.5%), chair stand (3 s) and increased leg lean mass (0.3 kg). Only the CT, however, increased muscle strength (29%) and fast walking speed (5%) compared with HIIT. The fast walking speed changes were partially explained by the muscle strength changes (36%, r = 0.60, P = 0.027) in the CT group. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that HIIT is an alternative time-efficient protocol for improving chair stand and body composition when compared with CT, whereas only CT is an efficient protocol for improving muscular strength and fast walking speed in obese PW. Thus, CT must be prioritized when the increase of muscular strength and fast walking speed are the goals of training. : Video Summary: Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/MENO/A443.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Nunes et al. (2019) conducted an RCT in Obesity (n=24). High-intensity interval training (HIIT) vs. Combined training (30 minutes of moderate walking at 70% MHR and five resistance exercises at 70% 1RM) was evaluated on Physical function, body composition, and muscle strength. High-intensity interval training and combined training both reduced body fat (0.5%), but only combined training increased muscle strength (29%) and fast walking speed (5%).
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: