Open AccessHigh intensity training in obesity: a Meta‐analysis
Author(s) -
Türk Y.,
Theel W.,
Kasteleyn M. J.,
Franssen F. M. E.,
Hiemstra P. S.,
Rudolphus A.,
Taube C.,
Braunstahl G. J.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
obesity science and practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.654
H-Index - 14
ISSN - 2055-2238
DOI - 10.1002/osp4.109
Subject(s) - medicine , obesity , meta analysis , weight loss , physical therapy , randomized controlled trial , physical fitness , cardiovascular fitness
Summary Introduction High Intensity training (HIT) is a time‐effective alternative to traditional exercise programs in adults with obesity, but the superiority in terms of improving cardiopulmonary fitness and weight loss has not been demonstrated. Objective to determine the effectiveness of HIT on cardiopulmonary fitness and body composition in adults with obesity compared to traditional (high volume continuous) exercise. Methods A systematic search of the main health science databases was conducted for randomized controlled trials comparing HIT with traditional forms of exercise in people with obesity. Eighteen studies were included in the meta‐analysis. The (unstandardized) mean difference of each outcome parameters was calculated and pooled with the random effects model. Results HIT resulted in greater improvement of cardiopulmonary fitness (VO 2max ) (MD 1.83, 95% CI 0.70, 2.96, p<0.005; I 2 =31%) and a greater reduction of %body fat (MD ‐1.69, 95% CI ‐3.10, ‐0.27, p=0.02, I 2 =30%) compared to traditional exercise. Overall effect for BMI was not different between HIT and traditional exercise. Conclusion Training at high intensity is superior to improve cardiopulmonary fitness and to reduce %body fat in adults with obesity compared to traditional exercise. Future studies are needed to design specific HIT programs for the obese with regard to optimal effect and long‐term adherence.