Interval training versus moderate-intensity continuous training for cardiorespiratory fitness improvements in middle-aged and older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Methodology

Meta-analysis

Population

14 RCTs, 429 middle-aged and older adults (from 3257 records screened)

Intervention

Interval training (HIIT or SIT, ≥2 weeks) vs moderate-intensity continuous training

Findings

In middle-aged and older adults, interval training (HIIT or SIT) produced greater VO2max gains than moderate-intensity continuous training, with a between-group difference favouring interval training of roughly 1.1 mL/kg/min.

Outcome measures

VO2max (mL/kg/min)

Limitations

Small total sample (429), short interventions, supervised laboratory settings, adherence and safety in older adults not fully addressed, absolute difference is modest (~1 mL/kg/min).

Original source

DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2021.1912453 · PMID: 33825615