title: The effect of a high-intensity interval training program on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in young men.
abstract: This study examined the impact of an 8-week program of high-intensity interval training on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), and the atherogenic index (TC/HDL-C) in 36 untrained men ages 21-36 years. Participants were randomly assigned to an interval training group (n = 20) or a control group (n = 16). Participants in the experimental group performed 3.2 km of interval running (1:1 work:rest ratio) 3 times a week for 8 weeks at an intensity of 90% of maximal heart rate ( approximately 423 kcal per session). Results indicated significant pre- to posttraining changes in HDL-C (1.1 vs. 1.3 mmolxL, p < 0.0001) and TC/HDL-C (3.8 vs. 3.1, p < 0.0001) but no significant changes in TC (3.9 vs. 3.8 mmolxL, p > 0.05) with interval training. It was concluded that an 8-week program of high-intensity interval training is effective in eliciting favorable changes in HDL-C and TC/HDL-C but not TC in young adult men with normal TC levels. Our findings support the recommendations of high-intensity interval training as an alternative mode of exercise to improve blood lipid profiles for individuals with acceptable physical fitness levels.
authors.affiliation: Human Performance Laboratory, Physical and Health Education Unit, Benue State University, Makurdi, Nigeria.
authors.forename: Danladi I
authors.initials: DI
authors.lastname: Musa
authors.forename: Samuel A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Adeniran
authors.forename: A U
authors.initials: AU
authors.lastname: Dikko
authors.forename: Stephen P
authors.initials: SP
authors.lastname: Sayers
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001823:Body Composition; D002784:Cholesterol / Q000097:blood; D008076:Cholesterol, HDL / Q000097:blood*; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010809:Physical Fitness; D012420:Running / Q000502:physiology*
chemical_list: D008076:Cholesterol, HDL; D002784:Cholesterol