Effect of high-intensity interval training on aerobic capacity, physical fitness, and body composition in martial arts athletes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Objective: This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on aerobic capacity, athletic performance, and body composition in martial arts athletes. Methods: max), athletic performance (strength, agility, speed), and body composition (muscle mass, body fat percentage, body weight). Data were analyzed using a random-effects model to calculate standardized mean differences (SMD). Results: = 1.000). However, no significant improvements were found in HRmax, skeletal muscle mass, or body weight. Conclusion: HIIT represents an effective training modality for martial arts athletes, and future studies should focus on long-term, large-sample randomized controlled trials to further clarify differential effects across subgroups and training modalities, as well as to explore optimal strategies for integrating HIIT with martial arts-specific training.