Chronic effects of high-intensity functional training on motor function: a systematic review with multilevel meta-analysis

Abstract

High-intensity functional training (HIFT) has become a popular method in the sports and fitness sector. In contrast to unimodal approaches such as strength or endurance training, it has been hypothesized to induce concurrent adaptations in multiple markers of motor function. However, to date, the effectiveness of HIFT in this regard has not been studied. The present systematic review quantified the chronic effects of HIFT on motor function in healthy individuals. A multilevel meta-analysis with a robust random effects meta-regession model was used to pool the standardized mean differences (SMD) between (a) HIFT and (b) no-exercise (NEX) as well as conventional endurance, resistance and balance training for outcomes of muscle strength, endurance capacity and balance. The influence of possible effect modifiers such as program duration, session duration, age or sex was examined in a moderator analysis. Seventeen papers with moderate to high methodological quality (PEDro scale) were identified. Compared to NEX, HIFT had small to moderate positive effects on endurance capacity (SMD: 0.42, 95% CI 0.07–0.78, p = 0.03) and strength (0.60, 95% CI 0.02–1.18, p = 0.04) but no effect on balance (SMD: − 0.10, 95% CI − 1.13 to 0.92, p = 0.42). Regarding endurance, HIFT showed similar effectiveness as moderate-intensity endurance training (SMD: − 0.11, 95% CI − 1.17 to 0.95, p = 0.75) and high-intensity interval endurance training (SMD: − 0.15, 95% CI − 1.4 to 1.1, p = 0.66). No comparisons of HIFT vs. classical resistance or balance training were found. Moderator analyses revealed no influence of most effect modifiers. However, regarding endurance, females seemed to respond more strongly to HIFT in the comparison to NEX (p < .05). HIFT appears to represent an appropriate method to induce chronic improvements in motor function. While being superior to NEX and non-inferior to endurance training, current evidence does not allow a comparison against resistance and balance training. The impact of possible effect moderators should be further elucidated in future research.

Effectiveness of Whole-Body High-Intensity Interval Training on Health-Related Fitness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

“…Since the WB-HIIT protocols included in the meta-analysis were designed to reach high intensities during the exercise phases, the greater effect of WB-HIIT on CRF, compared to no exercise, is consistent with previous findings [ 5 ]. A novel observation is the existence of a dose–response relationship supported by the regression between the total training time of WB-HIIT and the effect on CRF.…”

“…Recently, high-intensity functional training has become popular in the general population and among athletes, but also in rehabilitation settings due to its versatility and accessibility [ 2 , 3 ]. Similarly to traditional high-intensity interval training (HIIT) [ 4 ], high-intensity functional training alternates high-intensity bouts with periods of recovery, but instead of biking, running or rowing, it uses multi-joint aerobic and strengthening exercises that are closer to athletic and daily living movements [ 2 , 5 ].…”

“…In 2020, a meta-analysis compared the effect of WB-HIIT to MICT and HIIT on CRF in healthy individuals [ 5 ]. The aim of the present systematic review and meta-analysis was to include other important health-related fitness components (i.e., fat mass, fat-free mass, musculoskeletal fitness and metabolic health) to the comparison between WB-HIIT and traditional aerobic trainings or no exercise, and to enlarge the investigated populations by including trials on participants with metabolic risk factors or physical limitations.…”

Home-based High Intensity Functional Strength Training (HIFST) for Older Adults: A Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial and Qualitative Description of an Exercise Program to Prevent Functional Decline after an Injury

“…11 Many HIFST programs apply the HIIT interval format to functional strengthening exercises (usually multi-joint movements like sit-to-stands) in intense work to rest/recovery ratios. 10,12 By utilizing an interval format during HIFST, heart rate is elevated and there is potential to gain benefits from both aerobic and resistance training. 10,12 All rights reserved.…”

“…10,12 By utilizing an interval format during HIFST, heart rate is elevated and there is potential to gain benefits from both aerobic and resistance training. 10,12 All rights reserved. No reuse allowed without permission.…”