Exercise Training and Fitness in Severe Obesity

Obesity is commonly associated with insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia, which seem to be linked with an impaired ability to oxidize lipids, particularly in class III obese individuals \[Body Mass Index (BMI): \> 40 kg\*m-2\]. Exercise training is an effective strategy to improve insulin sensitivity and to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to compare the effects of two different 2-wk-long training modalities \[continuous at the intensity eliciting the maximal fat oxidation (Fatmax) versus adapted high intensity interval training (HIIT)\] on aerobic and metabolic fitness of class II and III obese men. It was hypothesized that, because of the nature of HIIT in the stimulation of rapid changes, aerobic fitness, fat oxidation rates during exercise and insulin sensitivity would be improved to a greater extent when adapted HIIT compared to Fatmax training.