Effects of High-Intensity Interval TRX Training on Body Composition, Muscular Power, and Strength in University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial
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Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of combined high-intensity interval TRX training on body composition, muscular strength, and muscular power in university students. A randomized controlled trial design was employed involving 40 healthy male participants aged 18–25 years, who were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (HIIT-TRX; n = 20) or a control group (n = 20). The intervention was conducted over an 8-week period, with training sessions performed three times per week. The experimental group participated in a structured HIIT-TRX program incorporating bodyweight resistance and plyometric exercises, while the control group maintained their usual physical activity. Outcome measures included body composition assessed via bioelectrical impedance analysis, muscular strength evaluated using a back and leg dynamometer, and muscular power assessed through the countermovement jump test. Data were analyzed using mixed-design ANOVA, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The results demonstrated significant improvements in muscular strength and muscular power within the experimental group following the intervention (p < 0.05), whereas no significant changes were observed in the control group. However, no statistically significant differences were found between groups in body composition variables or in the magnitude of change between groups (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that HIIT-TRX training is effective in enhancing neuromuscular performance, particularly muscular strength and power, in young adults. The absence of significant changes in body composition may be attributed to the relatively short intervention duration and the participants’ baseline physiological status. In conclusion, combined HIIT-TRX training represents a time-efficient and practical approach to improving functional physical performance in university populations, although longer interventions may be required to elicit significant changes in body composition
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