Effect of Two Chronic Exercise Protocols on Pre-Atherosclerotic and Anti-Atherosclerotic Biomarkers Levels in Obese and Overweight Children

Abstract

Background: Obesity is an independent risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis and arterial malformations. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of 12-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) vs. continuous Aerobic training on pre-atherosclerotic and anti-atherosclerotic biomarkers levels in obese and overweight children. Methods: This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences. Forty-five obese and overweight children (age: 11.06 ± 0.98 years, BMI: 25.12 ± 1.28 kg/m2) were randomly assigned to a HIIT group (n = 15, 3 sessions per week, 100% - 110% MAS intensity), aerobic group (n = 15, 3 sessions per week, 40% - 70% HRR intensity) and control group (no exercise, n = 15), which participated in the study for 12 weeks. Physical, physiological and blood variables measured at the beginning and end of the 12-week study. Descriptive statistics used to describe the variables and inferential statistics were used to data analysis Results: The results showed a significant increase in serum levels of salusin-α and NO in both training groups, but the contribution of HIIT was more significant in the intergroup review. Also, the levels of salusin-β, body weight, BMI, %BF, WHR and TG/HDL ratio were significantly decreased in both training groups, which were more significant in the HIIT group. Conclusions: According to our findings, the use of HIIT seems to be considered as an important factor in preventing chronic diseases of passive lifestyle for obese and overweight children. Therefore, to improve cardiometabolic health in obese and overweight children, we recommend regular physical activity with greater emphasis on HIIT.