Cardiorespiratory Adaptations to High-Intensity Inter-val Training in Young Boxers

Cardiorespiratory Adaptations to High-Intensity Inter-val Training in Young Boxers: A Randomized Con-trolled Study

This study examined the effects of a structured 4-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program integrated with boxing on young trained individuals. Participants were randomly assigned to a HIIT-boxing group or a control group. Pre- and post-intervention assessments measured pulmonary function, aerobic capacity (VO₂max), and heart rate recovery (HRR) at 1, 3, and 5 minutes post-exercise. The study aimed to explore physiological adaptations, particularly improvements in cardiopulmonary and autonomic function.

Integrating HIIT with boxing training may serve as an effective conditioning strategy for enhancing aerobic fitness, pulmonary function, and autonomic cardiovascular regulation in trained individuals. This combined approach could be valuable in sports performance programs and rehabilitation settings where improving VO₂max and recovery efficiency is a priority.

Background: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been recognized for its effectiveness in enhancing cardiorespiratory fitness. However, their combined application in boxing training remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the physiological adaptations induced by a structured 4-week HIIT-boxing regimen, with a specific focus on pulmonary function, aerobic capacity, and autonomic cardiovascular regulation, assessed by heart rate recovery (HRR). Methods: Sixteen trained young individuals were randomly assigned to either the HIIT-boxing group or the control group. Comprehensive assessments, including pulmonary function tests, peak oxygen uptake (VO2max), and HRR at the 1st, 3rd, and 5th minutes post-exercise, were conducted pre- and post-intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• aged 18-30 years.
• Actively engaged in structured boxing training for at least 2 years.
• Training a minimum of 3 days per week.
• Free of cardiovascular, pulmonary, or neuromuscular conditions.
• Willing to abstain from non-study physical training 48 hours prior to testing.
• Provided written informed consent after receiving a full explanation of study procedures.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Had any diagnosed medical conditions contraindicating high-intensity exercise (e.g., uncontrolled asthma, cardiac arrhythmias).
• Reported current musculoskeletal injuries limiting full participation.
• Were taking medications affecting heart rate or respiratory function.
• Missed more than 10% of the assigned training sessions.
• Failed to adhere to pre-assessment instructions (e.g., rest or diet restrictions).