Μaximal Fat Oxidation During Cycle Ergometer Protocols in Obese Adults: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Metabolic Health
• Obesity Research

Background:

• Maximal fat oxidation (MFO) and Fatmax are crucial for metabolic flexibility.
• Assessing these in obese populations presents unique methodological challenges.
• This review examines protocols for determining Fatmax and MFO during cycle ergometry in obese individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize evidence on protocols for Fatmax and MFO assessment in obese populations.
• To identify factors influencing fat oxidation in obesity.
• To evaluate the impact of exercise interventions on MFO and Fatmax.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review of 23 studies involving obese and sedentary participants.
• Analysis of cycle ergometry testing protocols, including workload and stage duration.
• Comparison of MFO and Fatmax values across different populations and interventions.

Main Results:

• Obese populations typically exhibit Fatmax at 30-50% of VO2 peak, lower than trained individuals.
• Fitness level influences fat oxidation more than adiposity; obesity shifts the fat oxidation curve leftward.
• Exercise interventions (moderate, HIIT, Fatmax-targeted) effectively enhance MFO and shift Fatmax to higher intensities.

Conclusions:

• Fatmax assessment is feasible in obese populations with adjusted protocols.
• Exercise interventions rapidly enhance fat oxidation capacity and improve metabolic health.
• Future research should focus on protocol standardization and long-term interventions for obesity management.