The Effects of Interval Compared to Continuous Training on Physical Variables and Vascular Health in College Students: A Three-Arm Randomized Controlled Trial

Summary

The purpose of this study is to compare two types of exercise programs in college students: high-intensity functional training and moderate-intensity continuous training. The study evaluates whether these exercise programs improve body composition, physical fitness, and blood vessel health compared with a group that does not participate in exercise training. In addition, the study examines whether changes in body composition and physical fitness are associated with changes in blood vessel health.

Eligibility

Age range

18–35 years

Sex

All

Healthy volunteers

Yes

Interventions

• Behavioral
  High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT)

  Participants will perform supervised high-intensity functional training using multi-joint functional movements that may include body-weight exercises, resistance-based movements, step-ups, squats, lunges, push-ups or modified push-ups, core exercises, etc. The intervention will be conducted over 8 weeks, with participants completing three sessions per week. Each session will last approximately 40 to 60 minutes.

• Behavioral
  Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training (MICT)

  Participants will perform supervised moderate-intensity continuous aerobic exercise such as treadmill walking/jogging, cycling, elliptical exercise, or step-based aerobic activity. The intervention will be conducted over 8 weeks, with participants completing three sessions per week. Each session will last approximately 40 to 60 minutes.

Location