Author(s): Pramod Kumar and Sonia Shalini

Abstract:
This study aims to evaluate the effects of an 8-week High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and Circuit Training (CT) program on the anthropometric and cardiovascular parameters of adolescent soccer players aged 14-17. A total of 50 male soccer players were randomly divided into two groups: 25 underwent HIIT and 25 participated in CT. Anthropometric variables, including weight, thigh girth, and calf girth, as well as cardiovascular measures such as resting heart rate, were recorded pre- and post-intervention. The results revealed significant improvements in both groups, with notable differences based on the training modality. The HIIT group showed a significant reduction in resting heart rate (p = 0.019), indicating enhanced cardiovascular efficiency, which aligns with previous studies highlighting HIIT's effectiveness in improving heart health and aerobic capacity (Weston et al., 2014). However, the CT group demonstrated greater gains in muscle mass, particularly in thigh and calf girth (p = 0.019 and p< 0.001, respectively), reflecting the hypertrophic effects of circuit-based resistance training (Rhea et al., 2003). Weight loss was observed in both groups but was not statistically significant (p = 0.649), suggesting that both methods similarly affect body mass reduction through fat loss (Schuenke et al., 2002). These findings suggest that HIIT is more effective for improving cardiovascular fitness, while CT is superior for enhancing muscle hypertrophy. Coaches and trainers can tailor training programs based on these outcomes, depending on whether the focus is on endurance or muscle strength. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer intervention periods could provide more insights into the long-term effects of these training modalities.

Pages: 229-234  |  30 Views  15 Downloads