Moderate to Vigorous-intensity Continuous Training versus Highintensity Interval Training for Improving VO2max in Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Traditional continuous training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can increase maximal oxygen uptake (V˙O 2max). However, there is conflicting evidence regarding which form of training demonstrates the greatest improvements to V˙O 2max, and data in women is sparse. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analyses to assess whether moderate to vigorous-intensity continuous training (MVICT) or HIIT was superior at improving V˙O 2maxin women. Randomised controlled and parallel studies examined the influence of MVICT and/or HIIT on V˙O 2maxin women. There was no statistical difference in V˙O 2maximprovements after training between women in the MVICT and HIIT cohorts (mean difference [MD]: -0.42, 95%CI: -1.43 to 0.60, p>0.05). Both MVICT and HIIT increased V˙O 2maxfrom baseline (MD: 3.20, 95% CI: 2.73 to 3.67 and MD: 3.16, 95% CI 2.09 to 4.24, respectively, p<0.001). Greater improvements in V˙O 2maxwere observed in women who participated in more training sessions in both training formats. Long-HIIT was superior to short-HIIT protocols at increasing V˙O 2max. Although MVICT and long-HIIT sessions elicited greater increases in V˙O 2maxin younger women compared to short-HIIT protocols, these differences were negligible in older women. Our findings suggest MVICT and HIIT are equally effective strategies for improving V˙O 2maxand indicate an effect of age on its response to training in women.