Integrating remote high-intensity interval training into multi-component obesity treatment for adolescents: Impacts on body composition, fitness, and lifestyle

Background

This study aimed to analyze the effects of a three-month remote High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) program as an adjunct to a multi-component clinical obesity treatment on body composition, physical fitness, movement behaviors, and nutritional habits in adolescents with obesity.

Methods

This study was designed as a non-randomized controlled trial involving a total of 100 adolescents with obesity (BMI z-score ≥2), aged 12–17, divided into a control group (CG, receiving only standard care, i.e., medical and nutritional guidance, n = 50), and an experimental group (EG, exposed to a remote HIIT program four times/week (∼20 min/session) for 3 months, additionally to standard care, n = 50). Intervention effect was analyzed based on adherence (presence in ≥80 % of sessions). Anthropometrics, body composition, and physical fitness data were assessed at baseline and at the end of the intervention. Changes in body composition and physical fitness were the primary outcomes, while movement behaviors and nutritional habits were considered secondary outcomes.

Results

Six participants were excluded from the analysis due to missing post-intervention assessments. Among the 44 (88 %) adolescents who completed the 3-month assessments, 28 were included in the adherents’ group (AG) and 16 in non-adherents (non-AG). BMI z-score significantly decreased over time (β = −0.08, p = 0.001), with the AG showing a more significant reduction than non-AG (β = −0.3, p < 0.001) and CG (β = −0.29, p < 0.001). Flexibility (β = 3.5, p < 0.001) and Core strength improved (β = 2.9, p = 0.002), with no differences between the AG and non-AG. Water consumption also increased (β = 0.2, p = 0.022), but only in the AG.

Conclusion

The remote HIIT program was effective in improving body composition and physical fitness in adolescents with obesity. These findings highlight the potential of remote exercise interventions as a feasible and beneficial strategy within multi-component obesity treatments.