Speed- and Circuit-Based High-Intensity Interval Training on Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption

Abstract

Due to the current obesity epidemic in the United States, there is growing interest in efficient, effective ways to increase energy expenditure and weight loss. Research has shown that high-intensity exercise elicits a higher Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption (EPOC) throughout the day compared to steady-state exercise. Currently, there is no research study that examines the differences in EPOC resulting from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) modalities. The purpose of this study is to review the impact of circuit training (CT) and speed interval training (SIT), on EPOC in both regular exercising and sedentary populations. Methods: Twenty-four participants were recruited from the UW-Eau Claire campus. They were divided into regularly exercising and sedentary groups, according to self-reported physical activity levels. Oxygen consumption was measured during and after two HIIT sessions, which was used to estimate caloric expenditure. There was no significant difference in caloric expenditure among the individuals who regularly exercise and the individuals who are sedentary. There was also no significant difference in EPOC between sedentary individuals and those who regularly exercise or between SIT and CT. However, there was a significantly higher caloric expenditure from SIT compared CT in both groups. Conclusion: Individuals do not need to complete one modality of HIIT (SIT or CT) over the other to have a greater influence on EPOC.