High-intensity interval training in overweight and obese children and adolescents: systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION: While High Intensity Interval Training is praised in many populations for its beneficial effects on body composition and cardiometabolic health, its use among obese youth remain uncertain. This study aimed at determining whether HIIT is effective to improve aerobic fitness and reduce cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight and obese youth. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: A systematic search was conducted and articles reporting studies that investigated the effects of HIIT in 6 to 18-year-old youth were eligible. Meta-analyses were performed when appropriate. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: Fifteen studies were included for the systematic review and meta-analyses. HIIT significantly improves maximal oxygen uptake (1.117 [95% CI: 0.528 to 1.706], P