High-intensity Interval Training Improves Cardiometabolic Health More Than Moderate-intensity Continuous Training In African Workers

PURPOSE: Obesity is a major risk factor for chronic, non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa, but there is little evidence on how to prevent these diseases in vulnerable African communities and workers. This study compared the effectiveness of 12-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on cardiometabolic health in a cohort of African workers. METHODS: 43 Black South African university professional workers were randomized into 3 groups: HIIT (n = 17), MICT (n = 15), and a control group (n = 11). The HIIT group performed progressive supervised exercise on a cycle ergometer, the MICT group performed continuous aerobic activity, and the control group maintained their usual routines. RESULTS: Both interventions improved waist (HIIT: d = -1.4 vs MICT: d = -1.3), glucose (HIIT: d = -1.7 vs MICT: d = -1.8), systolic blood pressure (HIIT: d = -1.0 vs MICT: d = -0.9), and VO2max (HIIT: d = 2.4 vs MICT: d = 2.4), but HIIT training was more effective for cardiometabolic health outcomes than MICT training (each p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This study provides important formative data for developing feasible workplace interventions to improve health outcomes in the context of a growing chronic diseases crisis.