Acute Effects of High-intensity Interval Aerobic and Functional Training at Different Intensities

Moderate-intensity physical exercise is widely recognized for its health benefits, yet time constraints limit adherence. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has gained popularity as a more time-efficient alternative, eliciting significant cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, and neuromuscular responses. More recently, functional strength exercises have been integrated into high-intensity training, leading to high-intensity functional training (HIFT) and moderate-intensity functional training (MIFT). However, the acute physiological responses to these modalities remain underexplored compared to traditional HIIT (running or cycling) and strength training. This study aims to assess and compare the acute cardiovascular, metabolic, and neuromuscular responses of HIFT, MIFT, HIIT, and traditional strength training in healthy, physically active adults to inform their potential application in special populations.