Affective responses during low-volume high-intensity interval exercise in overweight and obese adults: A systematic review

Obesity is a global public health challenge, and physical exercise, as a means of increasing energy expenditure, plays a crucial role in its management and reduction. High-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) is gaining popularity as an effective approach for improving physical health. However, its high intensity has been linked to negative emotional and affective responses among adults with excess body weight or adiposity. In this context, low-volume high intensity interval exercise (Lv-HIIE) emerges as a promising alternative to conventional HIIE. Despite its potential benefits, the literature on affective responses to Lv-HIIE in adults with excess body weight or affected by obesity remains limited.

This systematic review (PROSPERO registration no. CRD42024514591) evaluated the affective responses of Lv-HIIE among adults living with excessive weight or obesity. We compared emotional and affective response indicators before, during and after HIIE, moderate-intensity continuous exercise (MICE) and Lv-HIIE. The review adhered to the PRISMA guidelines and Cochrane recommendations, with data obtained from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and SPORTDiscus.

20 studies involving 472 participants met the inclusion criteria, with a mean age of (30.44 ​± ​6.93) years and a mean body mass index (BMI) of (30.26 ​± ​4.16) kg·m⁻². The gender distribution comprised 288 females and 184 males, resulting in a female-to-male ratio of approximately 1.57. The findings indicate that adults with excess body weight or obesity exhibit more positive affective responses to HIIE compared to MICE following exercise. Although HIIE may require greater effort, participants reported greater enjoyment and pleasurable post-exercise than following MICE. Compared to traditional HIIE, Lv-HIIE has a shorter exercise duration, less frequent sessions and a potentially lower overall exercise volume.

These improvements reduce exertion during the exercise, fostering enhanced pleasure and enjoyment afterward.