Effect of sprint interval training and resistance exercise on metabolic markers in overweight women

Background: Physical activity is associated with an improvement in cardiovascular health, however there is a paucity of information about the effects of sprint interval training on individuals with high metabolic risk. Aim: To determine the effects of three exercise programs on anthropometric and metabolic markers in overweight, sedentary and prediabetic women. Material and Methods: Forty three women were ascribed to four groups matched by body mass index and body fat: high intensity intervals (HIT n = 12), resistance (R, n = 8), combined group (HIT+R, n = 10) and control group (CG, n = 13). Participants completed 12 weeks of exercise intervention. Body mass index, waist circumference, percentage of fat mass measured by impedanciometry, blood pressure, fasting glucose, insulin and homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA(IR)) and fitness assessed using the two km walk test were measured at baseline and after the training period. Results: No changes in anthropometric and body composition variables were observed. However, in HIT and R groups, significant reductions were observed on fasting glucose (5.4 and 16.6% respectively), insulin (18.6 and 43.4% respectively) and HOMA(IR) (24.1 and 55.4% respectively), 72 hours after the intervention. No significant changes were found for the observed values in the combined and control groups. Conclusions: HIT and resistance training improve glycemic control and insulin sensitivity in females with a high metabolic risk. (Rev Med Chile 2012; 140: 1289-1296).