High-Intensity Functional Training for Healthy Individuals
(HIFT Trial)
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that participants are not currently taking medications for high cholesterol, blood sugar, high blood pressure, or blood thinning. If you are on these medications, you would not be eligible to participate.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment High-Intensity Functional Training for healthy individuals?
Research shows that High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) can improve cardiovascular fitness, strength, and overall physical performance. Studies have found that HIFT programs enhance muscle recruitment and can lead to better metabolic and cardiorespiratory health, similar to the benefits seen with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and strength exercises.12345
Is High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) generally safe for humans?
High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) has injury rates similar to other exercise activities, with common injuries affecting the shoulders, back, and knees. While most injuries are not severe, some can require surgery, and risk factors include weightlifting exercises, competition participation, and prior injuries. More high-quality studies are needed to fully understand its safety.36789
How does high-intensity functional training differ from other treatments for improving fitness?
High-intensity functional training (HIFT) is unique because it combines high-intensity exercise with functional, multi-joint movements that can be adjusted for any fitness level, unlike traditional exercise which often focuses on single-joint movements. HIFT aims to improve multiple fitness domains, including strength, endurance, and cardiorespiratory fitness, by incorporating varied exercises and durations, which may or may not include rest periods.1261011
What is the purpose of this trial?
The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of high-intensity functional training (HIFT) as compared to traditional resistance training (RT) and concurrent training consisting of RT and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on physical performance metrics, body composition, and mental and physical readiness of tactical personnel.
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for healthy tactical personnel interested in improving physical performance, body composition, and readiness. Participants should be currently active in their field without any medical conditions that limit intense exercise.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-testing
Participants complete pre-testing sessions including body composition, VO2max, upper and lower body maximal strength, and lower body power assessments
Training Intervention
Participants are randomly assigned to one of three training interventions: High-Intensity Functional Training, Traditional Resistance Training, or Concurrent Training, and undergo 8 weeks of training
Post-testing
Participants complete post-testing sessions similar to pre-testing to assess changes in performance metrics
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any delayed effects or additional data collection
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Concurrent training
- High-intensity functional training
- Traditional resistance training
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of South Carolina
Lead Sponsor
National Strength and Conditioning Association
Collaborator
National Strength and Conditioning Association
Collaborator