The effect of high intensity interval training vs moderate intensity continuous training on motor ability components in college women athletes

Authors

  • Lakshmi Prabha V Ph D Scholar, Department of Physical Education, H. H. The Rajah’s College (Autonomous), (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli), Pudukkottai, Tamilnadu, 622001, India. https://orcid.org/0009-0009-6908-9123
  • John Parthiban I Director of Physical Education, H. H. The Rajah’s College(Autonomous) (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli), Pudukkottai, Tamilnadu, 622001, India. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4071-3983

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v73.117596

Keywords:

athletes, flexibility, high-intensity interval training, motor ability, moderate-intensity continuous training, Arm strength

Abstract

Introduction: Balance, fine motor skills, and gross motor skills are the three components of motor ability that are necessary for independent living, completing daily tasks, and engaging in active engagement with the outside world. They are essential for physical health, mobility, and coordination. By encouraging self-care, exploration, and participation in sports and physical activities, they also influence social and cognitive development as well as emotional well-being.

Objective: This study investigated the effect of high intensity interval training vs moderate intensity continuous training on arm strength and flexibility in college women athletes.

Methodology: Forty-five (N=45) women athletes, with an Age: 18.58±0.29, Height: 165.18±0.75 and Weight: 62.38±1.13 were randomly assigned to one of three groups: the High-Intensity Interval Training  Group (HIITG), the Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training Group (MICTG) and  Control Group (CG). The training period was limited to three days per week for twelve weeks. Among the motor ability components arm strength and flexibility were selected as dependent variables. Arm strength was measured through push-ups test and flexibility was assessed via sit & reach test.

Results: HIIT and MICT workouts  are useful and effective for athletes. However, further comprehensive comparative analyses are needed to make personalized recommendations for individuals in women athletes to determine which training method is the most optimal choice for their goals.

Conclusions: In summary, HIIT and MICT workouts  are useful and effective for athletes. However, further comprehensive comparative analyses are needed to make personalized recommendations for individuals in women athletes to determine which training method is the most optimal choice for their goals.

Author Biographies

  • Lakshmi Prabha V, Ph D Scholar, Department of Physical Education, H. H. The Rajah’s College (Autonomous), (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli), Pudukkottai, Tamilnadu, 622001, India.

    Ph D Scholar, Department of Physical Education, H. H. The Rajah’s College (Autonomous), (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli),  Pudukkottai, Tamilnadu, 622001, India.

  • John Parthiban I, Director of Physical Education, H. H. The Rajah’s College(Autonomous) (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli), Pudukkottai, Tamilnadu, 622001, India.

    Director of Physical Education, H. H. The Rajah’s College(Autonomous) (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli), Pudukkottai, Tamilnadu, 622001, India.

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Published

10-11-2025

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Original Research Article

How to Cite

Prabha V, L., & Parthiban I, J. (2025). The effect of high intensity interval training vs moderate intensity continuous training on motor ability components in college women athletes. Retos, 73, 1277-1286. https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v73.117596