Master of Science (MS), Ohio University, 2014, Exercise Physiology-Research (Health Sciences and Professions)

The purpose of this study was to determine the acute and residual effects of high intensity interval training on a cycle ergometer on fasting glucose and insulin and postprandial glycemic and insulinemic responses; a secondary purpose was to determine the effects of the exercise training on body composition and aerobic fitness. The exercise sessions consisted of six 20-second sprints on a cycle ergometer performed against a resistance equivalent to 7.5% of subjects' body weight; each sprint was separated by 4 minutes of active recovery. Exercise sessions were performed 2 to 4 days apart. A meal challenge was performed prior to the first exercise session, during which time a baseline blood sample was obtained, a standardized mixed meal was provided, and subsequent blood sampling occurred over a 3-hour period. This was repeated 48-72 hours after the final exercise session, and again 5-7 days later. In conclusion, in this group of apparently healthy, but sedentary men, six sessions of high intensity interval training on a cycle ergometer was not sufficient to improve fasting or postprandial glycemia or insulinemia but was sufficient to elicit an improvement in body fat percentage and cycling performance.

Committee: Michael Kushnick (Advisor); Michael Clevidence (Committee Member); Rika Tanda (Committee Member) Subjects: Alternative Medicine; Health Sciences; Kinesiology; Physiology; Sports Medicine