Effects of an acute high-intensity interval training protocol on plasma viscosity

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• High-intensity interval training (HIT) is recognized for inducing physiological adaptations comparable to traditional exercise.
• Understanding the impact of low-volume HIT on hemorheological factors is crucial for exercise prescription.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the acute effects of a low-volume high-intensity interval training (HIT) protocol on plasma viscosity (PV).

Main Methods:

• Ten healthy males completed either a HIT running protocol or an aerobic running exercise.
• Blood samples were collected pre- and post-exercise, and post-recovery for analysis.
• Measurements included plasma viscosity, hematocrit, total proteins, and other blood constituents.

Main Results:

• Plasma viscosity significantly increased post-HIT, while hematocrit rose after both protocols.
• HIT induced a greater plasma volume loss compared to aerobic exercise.
• Concentrations of total proteins, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and glucose increased significantly after HIT.

Conclusions:

• A single low-volume HIT session leads to significant plasma volume reduction.
• This volume loss results in elevated plasma constituent concentrations and a transient increase in plasma viscosity.
• The findings highlight the hemorheological impact of short-duration, high-intensity exercise.