Western Students and Faculty Published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

The High Altitude Performance Laboratory (HAP Lab) at Western continues to excel in research, recently publishing the featured article in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Personalized Moderate-Intensity Exercise Training Combined with High-Intensity Interval Training Enhances Training Responsiveness explored if moderate-intensity continuous exercise training (MICT) was more effective when combined with high-intensity interval training (HIIT). By comparing a non-exercise control group to one of two exercise groups, the team measured physical indicators such as oxygen intake and metabolic score to see how they were impacted by different exercise regimens. The results showed that a combined approach led to higher overall responsiveness.

“We are continuously seeking ways to personalize exercise to ensure each individual will obtain the maximal benefits,” Associate Professor of Exercise & Sport Science Lance Dalleck said. “Although much previous research has focused on the concept of HIIT, we are the first group of researchers to combine HIIT with more traditional moderate-intensity continuous training.”

The study was the result of a collaboration among Dalleck, Western students and students and faculty from Flinders University in Australia. That level of international collaboration raises the profile of Western as a premier research institution, especially in the field of high altitude exercise physiology.

“This publication was very exciting, as it brings positive attention to the HAP Lab and our Exercise & Sport Science/High Altitude Exercise Physiology programs,” Dalleck said. “It also demonstrates that we are capable of being an innovative hub where creative ideas can be tested that provide answers to global programs.”

Read the full paper to learn more.