A meta-analysis of the effects of high-intensity interval training on circulatory system-related indicators in sedentary populations
Year: 2025
Type: review
Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis
Abstract: Objective: This study systematically evaluated the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on circulatory indicators in sedentary populations. Following the framework of systematic review and meta-analysis, it synthesized current evidence to support the evidence-based application of HIIT in exercise interventions for sedentary individuals. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered on PROSPERO. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and CNKI for studies published between January 2000 and July 2025. Inclusion criteria used the PICOS framework: Participants (sedentary individuals), Intervention (HIIT), Comparison (control), Outcomes (blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, flow-mediated dilation, heart rate), and Study type randomized controlled trials. The search yielded 434 records. After duplicate removal and screening, 14 RCTs (500 participants) were included. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool assessed study quality, and analyses used RevMan 5.4. Results: = 79%), suggesting age may be a major source of heterogeneity. Conclusion: HIIT effectively improves key circulatory indicators in sedentary populations, including blood pressure, vascular elasticity, and endothelial function, making it a valuable exercise strategy for vascular health management. However, further high-quality and standardized clinical trials are needed to confirm its long-term efficacy and safety. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?, identifier CRD420251106079.
Source: Frontiers in Physiology
Authors: Guoshuai Li, Depeng Dong
Institutions: Shandong University, Qufu Normal University
Language: English
Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W4417182072