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EFFECTS OF HIGH-INTENSITY FUNCTIONAL TRAINING ON BODY IMAGE PERCEPTION, BODY COMPOSITION, AND PERFORMANCE

Abstract

S.C. Mercer, J. D. Scott, C.P. Connolly

Washington State University

Limited previous research has shown high-intensity functional training (HIFT) positively affects body composition and physical performance, including strength and muscular endurance. However, the effects of HIFT on body image have not been investigated. PURPOSE: To determine effects of a 6-week HIFT training program on body image perceptions, body composition, and performance. METHODS: 19 college-age individuals participating in a university HIFT program (n = 11 female, Mage = 22.3 ± 3.7 years) were recruited. Body image perceptions were assessed through a quantitative questionnaire and body composition was assessed via air plethysmography (Bod PodTM). Performance was assessed by tracking scores from 3-repetition-maximum (3RM) deadlift and push-press (strength), 2-minute push-up test (muscular endurance), a 60-second wind-resistance bike effort (anaerobic capacity performance), and a Balance Error Scoring System Test (balance assessment). Paired T-Tests were used to compare week 0 scores to week 6 for all measured variables. RESULTS: Participants attended 3.0 ± .96 classes per week for 6 weeks. Deadlift score significantly increased between week 0 (M=248.8±94.6 lbs) and week 6 (M=271.3±87.9 lbs), (t(15)=-4.45, p<.001), and between push-press scores (Week 0 M=125.0 ± 45.0 lbs, Week 6 M=130.3 ± 44.8 lbs), (t(15)=-2.71, p<.05). A significant difference in push-up repetitions was observed (Week 0 M=42.1±12.4 reps, Week 6 M=48.4±10.4 reps), (t(8)=-1.47, p<.05). Balance errors significantly increased (Week 0 M=13.7±6.0 errors, Week 6 M=17.4±10.0 errors), (t(18)=-2.21, p<.05). Fat-free mass significantly increased (Week 0 M=62.2±15.4 kg, Week 6 M=63.43±15.51 kg), (t(18)=-2.93, p<.05). Fat-mass significantly decreased (Week 0 M=14.9±8.1kg, Week 6 M=14.1±7.8kg), (t(18)=2.56, p<.05). Overweight preoccupation scores significantly decreased (Week 0 M=2.53±.76, Week 6 M=2.34±.64),(t(19)=2.22, p<.05). CONCLUSION: Participation in at least 6 weeks of HIFT can improve measures of strength and muscular endurance, and change body composition without body weight change. HIFT shows preliminary evidence for decreasing negative body image perceptions regarding overweight preoccupation.

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