RCTHumann = 342026Iran
High intensity functional training versus traditional resistance training effects on inflammatory, metabolic, and physical outcomes in overweight men a randomized controlled trial.
Plain-language summary
This study compared two exercise approaches, high-intensity functional training (HIFT) and traditional resistance training (RT), for improving metabolic, inflammatory, and physical health in overweight men. Thirty-four men with an average BMI of 28 were split into HIFT, RT, or control groups, exercising three times a week for eight weeks. While both HIFT and RT lowered fasting blood sugar and improved muscle mass, HIFT led to greater fat loss and better cardiovascular fitness (VO2max) than RT. Neither training type significantly changed inflammatory markers, but both showed benefits for metabolic health and strength.
Key findings
- Both HIFT and RT significantly reduced fasting blood sugar.
- Both HIFT and RT improved body fat percentage.
- RT improved VO2 max more than HIFT.
- No significant differences in inflammatory markers were detected between the groups.
How to analyze the study yourself
- Study type
- Randomized controlled trials are strong for testing cause and effect but may not reflect real-world conditions.
- Population
- The study included overweight men aged 31.91 ± 2.44 years with a BMI of 27.78 ± 1.47 kg/m².
- Funding
- Not reported
- Watch for
- This study found that both high-intensity functional training and traditional weightlifting improved blood sugar, strength, and muscle mass, but HIFT was better for fat loss and cardio fitness. If you are overweight and want to boost fitness and body composition, HIFT may be worth trying alongside or instead of standard weight training.