High-intensity interval exercise enhances vascular function to a greater extent than moderate-intensity continuous aerobic exercise
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This case study compared the acute effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on vascular and microvascular function in a healthy male subject (age: 34 yrs; body mass index: 25.82 kg/m2). Key vascular parameters were assessed, including augmentation index (AIx), carotid-femoral and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (cfPWV, baPWV), flow-mediated slowing (FMS%), and tissue saturation index (TSI) recovery slope. HIIT induced a greater reduction in baPWV (mean difference [MD]: 0.9 m/s) and a higher increase in FMS% (MD: 8%) compared to MICT, indicating more favourable changes in peripheral arterial stiffness and endothelial function. Additionally, the reoxygenation slope for TSI was more pronounced after HIIT, suggesting improved microvascular recovery. Interestingly, AIx increased following MICT (MD from baseline: 11%) but slightly decreased after HIIT (MD from baseline: −5%). These findings suggest that exercise intensity plays a critical role in determining vascular adaptations, with HIIT showing superior acute benefits.
Source: Annales Kinesiologiae
DOI: 10.35469/ak.2025.520
Institution: University of Ljubljana
Language: English
Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4414016864