Impacto del Entrenamiento HIIT en los Componentes de la Condición Física Relacionados con la Salud en Adolescentes: Un Estudio en Cuenca, Ecuador

Abstract

Physical inactivity in adolescents is associated with deficiencies in health-related physical fitness components (HRPFC), increasing the risk of chronic diseases. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has emerged as an efficient and adaptable strategy for educational settings. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of an 8-week HIIT program (2 sessions per week during physical education classes) on HRPFC in Ecuadorian adolescents. A pre-experimental, quantitative approach was applied with 26 participants aged 15 to 17. The program included bodyweight exercises performed for 30 to 60 seconds at 90% intensity. The following components were assessed: body composition (skinfold thickness), cardiovascular endurance (Course Navette), strength (standing long jump and handgrip dynamometry), muscular endurance (abdominal test and flexed-arm hang), and flexibility (Sit and Reach). Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests and Wilcoxon tests (p < 0.05). Results showed significant reductions in body fat percentage (14.00% to 13.48%; p < 0.001), and improvements in cardiovascular endurance (+1.17 stages; p < 0.001), jump strength (+5.06 cm; p < 0.001), handgrip strength (+1.63 kg; p < 0.01), abdominal endurance (+1.69 repetitions; p < 0.001), and flexed-arm hang (+3.75 s; p < 0.01). Flexibility did not show significant changes (p = 0.20). It is concluded that HIIT is a feasible strategy in schools to improve adolescent physical fitness; however, longer programs and the inclusion of specific flexibility exercises are recommended.