Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training or High-Intensity Interval Training with or without Resistance Training for...

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Obesity Research

Background:

• Postmenopausal women are at increased risk of obesity and associated health issues.
• Exercise interventions are crucial for managing body composition in this demographic.
• Comparing different exercise modalities is essential for optimizing health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT), high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and HIIT plus resistance training (RT) on body composition in overweight/obese postmenopausal women.
• To investigate the relationship between fat mass reduction and fat oxidation (FatOx) following these exercise programs.
• To evaluate changes in total and regional fat mass, as well as fat-free mass.

Main Methods:

• Randomized controlled trial with 27 overweight/obese postmenopausal women.
• Intervention groups: MICT, HIIT, and HIIT + RT for 12 weeks (3 d/wk).
• Body composition assessed using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry; FatOx measured at rest, during, and after exercise.

Main Results:

• All groups showed decreased body weight and total fat mass.
• Significant reductions in abdominal/visceral fat mass were observed in HIIT and HIIT + RT groups only.
• HIIT + RT significantly increased muscle mass percentage; FatOx did not differ between groups during or after exercise.

Conclusions:

• MICT or HIIT ± RT are viable options for weight and fat mass reduction in overweight/obese postmenopausal women.
• HIIT is more effective than MICT for reducing abdominal/visceral fat.
• Adding RT to HIIT enhances muscle mass but does not further improve visceral fat reduction.