Comparison of the effect of high-intensity interval training and intense resistance training on some cardiovascular risk factors, atherogenic index and liver enzymes in overweight and obese men

Regular physical activity is recommended for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases in overweight and obese people. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of high intensity interval training (HIIT) and intense resistance on some cardiovascular risk factors, atherogenic index and liver enzymes in overweight and obese men.

In this semi-experimental study, 31 overweight and obese men were randomly divided into three groups: HIIT training (n=11), intense resistance training (n=10) and control (n=10). Subjects in the HIIT group performed exercises with an intensity of 85-90% heart rate reserve and in the resistance training group with an intensity of 80-85% one repetition maximum, 3 sessions per week for 9 weeks. Before and after the intervention, blood samples were taken from the subjects to measure the lipid profile, liver enzymes and calculate atherogenic indices. Analysis of covariance test was used to analyze the data.

In the HIIT group, total cholesterol, triglycerides, plasma atherogenic index, CRI-I, CRI-II, atherogenic coefficient and ALT decreased significantly compared to the control group (P<0.05). HDL increased significantly in the HIIT group compared to the pre-test. In the severe resistance group, total cholesterol, triglyceride, plasma atherogenic index, CRI-I and atherogenic coefficient  decreased significantly compared to the control group (P<0.05). No significant difference was observed between HIIT and resistance groups (P>0.05).

The results of the present study suggest that both HIIT and intense resistance training exercises are useful in improving cardiac risk factors, but it seems that the rate of improvement of cardiac risk factors, atherogenic and liver enzymes is higher in HIIT exercises.