INFLUENCE OF HIGH INTENSIVE INTERVAL TRAINING ON STUDENTS

Abstract

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) appeared as a replacement for long-term exercise programs, primarily continuous aerobic exercise in adults, while in adolescents it represents a more natural way of exercise, unlike traditional moderate-intensity exercise. The aim of this systematic review is to examine the impact of high-intensity interval training in elementary school students, based on the collected data and analyzed research. The literature search was performed using the following databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, DOAJ, MEDLINE. After a detailed analysis, 11 studies met the set criteria and were included in the systematic review. The results indicate that HIIT for a duration of 12 weeks gives statistically significant results in reducing body weight and visceral fat, lowering arterial blood pressure, reducing BMI and increasing VO2max and improving fitness parameters of children. HIIT is an effective way of improving various fitness parameters and health conditions in a school population, with our review research indicating significant improvements in body composition parameters, fitness parameters as well as cardiovascular disease compared to a non-exercising control group.