Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
Senior Expert in Applied Sports Physiology, Faculty of Literature and Human Sciences, Shahrekord University, Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, Iran
2
شهرکرد سرچشمه ها خیابان قدس روبه روی اداره حوادث اب پ ۴۱۸ منزل حسین غفاری
3
Associate Professor, Department of Sports Physiology, Faculty of Literature and Human Sciences, Shahrekord University, Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, Iran
10.22080/jaep.2026.30293.2235
Abstract
Background: Overweight and obesity are associated with adverse metabolic alterations, including elevated leptin levels, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and activation of inflammatory pathways. These changes substantially increase the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. In recent years, exercise interventions have been recognized as a non-pharmacological approach to managing metabolic and inflammatory dysfunctions.
Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of combined high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and resistance exercise on metabolic and inflammatory markers in overweight men.
Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 30 overweight men were recruited through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group participated in a 12-week combined HIIT and resistance training program (three sessions per week, 45 minutes each), while the control group received no intervention. Outcome measures included serum leptin, fasting glucose, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance.
Results: Findings revealed that combined training significantly reduced leptin, fasting glucose, insulin resistance, CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α levels in the experimental group compared with controls (p<0.05). Moreover, significant improvements in body composition were observed following the intervention.
Conclusion: The results indicate that combine high-intensity interval and resistance training can serve as an effective non-pharmacological strategy to improve metabolic profiles and reduce systemic inflammation in overweight men. Such interventions may play a pivotal role in preventing and managing disorders associated with obesity, particularly type 2 diabetes and related metabolic conditions.
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