High-intensity interval training improves physical performance without C-reactive protein (CRP) level alteration in overweight sedentary women

A sedentary lifestyle is associated with an unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity. This study aimed to analyze the effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on changes in VO2max and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in overweight young adult women with a sedentary lifestyle. The subjects included 20 women who were 21-30 years old and divided into 2 groups, a treatment group (performed HIIT) and a control group. Physical exercise (bicycle) included an intensity of 90% of the maximum heart rate (HRmax) with intervals. The exercise was carried out by pedaling an ergocycle for 10 s at a speed of 100 rpm and 50 s at a speed of 50 rpm intermittently for a total of 20 min. Exercise was performed 3×/week or 8 sessions in 3 weeks. The measured variables included VO2max and CRP level. These were taken before (pre) and after (post) treatment. VO2max was measured by the Astrand-Rhyming Test with a bicycle ergometer, and CRP was analyzed using the ELISA method. In addition, the changes in VO2max and CRP levels were also calculated. These results showed that the VO2max after treatment with HIIT (35.2±2.12 ml/kg/min) was significantly higher (p