A novel periodized high-repetition giant-set resistance and high-intensity interval training effects on the metabolic and pro-inflammatory parameters in long- and short-term overweight men

This study compared the capacity of high-repetition giant-set resistance training (HGRT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to decline C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-6, soluble IL-6 receptor (SIL-6R), IL-18, and insulin resistance markers in long- (5-10 years) and short-term (1-4 years) overweight men. Another purpose was to compare these markers between the two populations. Firstly, eligible participants were matched based on age, body mass index, and aerobic fitness and then divided into a long- (n = 37) or short-term (n = 32) overweight population. After that, the participants in each category were randomly assigned to HGRT (2 giant sets of 4-exercise x 2 circuits at 30%-50% of one-repetition maximum with a novel periodization), HIIT (4-set x 4-min of running at 80%-90% of HRmax), and control (CON, non-exercising) groups. The well-balanced training programs were performed in three weekly sessions for 12 weeks. This study showed that individuals with a longer history of being overweight have elevated baseline concentrations of CRP, SIL-6R, and IL-18 (all, p <= 0.04, effect size [ES] >= 0.65). Both training programs led to a similar reduction in insulin and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance versus CON (all p <= 0.03, ES >= 0.49) regardless of the duration of being overweight, although SIL-6R was significantly reduced after HIIT versus pretest (both, p <= 0.03, ES = 0.17). The two exercises caused a significant decline in IL-18 in the long-term population versus CON, while HIIT was the only program that decreased CRP (all, p <= 0.04, 0.21 <= ES <= 0.34). Thus, it seems that overweight history plays a crucial role in deteriorating some of the biomarkers, and the two exercises have greater potential to attenuate IL-18. However, HIIT might have a greater anti-inflammatory effect (as indicated by CRP and SIL-6R) than HGRT. Participants with a longer history of being overweight had significantly higher C-reactive protein (CRP), soluble IL-6 receptor (SIL-6R), and interleukin (IL)-18, although there was no significant difference for IL-6 and insulin resistance markers. The 12 weeks of high-repetition giant-set resistance training (HGRT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) had equal effect on insulin resistance markers and obesity indices regardless of the duration of being overweight. The HGRT and HIIT led to a reduction of IL-18 in the long-term overweight population. HIIT was the only program that declined CRP and SIL-6R.