Time to end uncivil debates: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is just as enjoyable and likely to be adhered to as moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT)

Take home message

• High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a time-efficient, enjoyable, and effective exercise approach suitable for diverse populations.
• Engaging in HIIT and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) results in similarly favourable enjoyment ratings and adherence in supervised and unsupervised settings.
• Academic discussions on HIIT have become hostile. Instead of engaging in combative debates over HIIT vs MICT, efforts are better spent addressing fundamental questions about exercise adherence across all forms of exercise.

Background

• HIIT involves short bursts of intense exercise alternated with recovery periods.
• Originally designed for athletes, HIIT is now widely studied across various populations, with numerous reviews demonstrating its benefits beyond just sports performance.
• The promotion of HIIT for public health has sparked skepticism among some researchers, especially regarding psychological responses and whether it can be readily adopted and adhered to.

How the study was done

• Part 1 reviewed reproducible published reviews on psychological responses to HIIT, such as enjoyment and overall well-being.
• Part 2 reviewed the only published systematic review and meta-analysis comparing adherence to HIIT and MICT in supervised and unsupervised settings.
• Part 3 critically analyzed the portrayal of HIIT commentaries as a debate, identified examples of uncivil discourse, and discussed how such hostility threatens scientific dialogue and progress.
• The authors showed the reality of academic bullying in HIIT research.
• Recommendations were made to encourage respectful and constructive academic discussions.

What the researchers found

• Affective experiences during HIIT tend to be less acutely positive than MICT, and post-exercise enjoyment of HIIT is generally more positive than MICT.
• Adherence rates for HIIT and MICT are not significantly different from each other in supervised (89.4% and 92.5%; respectively) and unsupervised (63% and 68.2%; respectively) settings. 
• Discussions about HIIT have become hostile, often occurring through opinion articles or social media attacks.
• Academic discourse should prioritize respectful, evidence-based discussion that avoids assumptions, personal attacks, and overgeneralization while promoting open, constructive conversations that acknowledge diverse perspectives and research limitations.

Conclusion

Adherence to HIIT and MICT is comparable, reinforcing that the best exercise is the one individuals will consistently engage in. Debates about the “perfect” workout have hindered efforts to help more people become physically active. Respectful, evidence-based dialogue is crucial for advancing exercise science and public health.