Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis investigates the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on cardiovascular fitness in sedentary individuals. The study aims to address the growing concern of sedentary lifestyles contributing to poor cardiovascular health and explore the potential benefits of HIIT as an effective exercise intervention. The research methodology involved a systematic review of the existing literature on HIIT and cardiovascular fitness, followed by a controlled experimental study with sedentary participants. The introduction provides an overview of sedentary behavior and its impact on cardiovascular health, highlighting the need for effective interventions. The background of the study discusses the rise of sedentary lifestyles in modern society and the associated health risks. The problem statement emphasizes the urgency of addressing sedentary behavior to prevent cardiovascular diseases. The objectives of the study include examining the effects of HIIT on cardiovascular fitness parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure, and aerobic capacity. The literature review chapter synthesizes existing research on HIIT and cardiovascular fitness, highlighting the benefits of HIIT compared to traditional moderate-intensity continuous training. The research methodology chapter outlines the study design, participant recruitment, HIIT intervention protocol, data collection methods, and statistical analysis plan. The discussion of findings chapter presents the results of the study, including changes in cardiovascular fitness parameters pre- and post-HIIT intervention. The conclusion and summary chapter discuss the implications of the study findings for promoting cardiovascular health in sedentary individuals. The limitations of the study, such as sample size constraints and potential confounding variables, are also addressed. The significance of the study lies in its contribution to the body of knowledge on the effectiveness of HIIT as a cardiovascular fitness intervention for sedentary individuals. Overall, this thesis provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of HIIT for improving cardiovascular fitness in sedentary individuals and underscores the importance of physical activity in maintaining heart health. Further research in this area could help inform public health strategies aimed at reducing sedentary behavior and preventing cardiovascular diseases.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Investigating the effects of high-intensity interval training on cardiovascular fitness in sedentary individuals" aims to explore the impact of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on cardiovascular fitness in individuals with sedentary lifestyles. Sedentary behavior, characterized by prolonged periods of physical inactivity, has been associated with various health risks, including poor cardiovascular health. HIIT is a form of exercise that involves short bursts of intense activity followed by brief periods of rest or low-intensity exercise. It has gained popularity in recent years for its potential to improve cardiovascular fitness in a time-efficient manner. The research will begin with a comprehensive review of existing literature on HIIT, cardiovascular fitness, sedentary behavior, and the relationship between physical activity and cardiovascular health. This literature review will provide a theoretical foundation for the study and highlight gaps in the current understanding of how HIIT may impact cardiovascular fitness in sedentary individuals. The methodology section will outline the research design, participant recruitment criteria, exercise intervention protocols, outcome measures, and data analysis procedures. Sedentary individuals will be recruited and randomly assigned to either a HIIT intervention group or a control group. The HIIT group will undergo a structured HIIT program, while the control group will maintain their sedentary lifestyle. Cardiovascular fitness will be assessed using standardized tests before and after the intervention period. The findings section will present the results of the study, including changes in cardiovascular fitness parameters such as VO2 max, heart rate, blood pressure, and lipid profile. The discussion will interpret the findings in the context of existing literature, exploring the mechanisms through which HIIT may improve cardiovascular fitness in sedentary individuals. Practical implications for public health and exercise prescription will also be discussed. In conclusion, this research aims to contribute to the growing body of evidence on the benefits of HIIT for cardiovascular health, particularly in sedentary individuals. By investigating the effects of HIIT on cardiovascular fitness in this population, the study seeks to provide valuable insights that can inform future interventions and guidelines for promoting physical activity and improving cardiovascular health outcomes.