Hong Kong Baptist University researchers test Plyo-HIIT for children

Researchers from Hong Kong Baptist University have launched a randomized controlled trial to investigate a new exercise intervention called Plyo-HIIT, designed to improve body composition in children. The study aims to address a common issue in pediatric weight loss where traditional methods, such as calorie restriction or general aerobic exercise, often result in the loss of muscle mass alongside fat.

The 16-week program involves 210 children aged 9 to 12 from local primary schools. Participants are divided into three groups: a plyometric-based high-intensity interval training (Plyo-HIIT) group, a structured fitness group, and a health education control group.

The Plyo-HIIT sessions last 45 minutes and include rope-skipping intervals and progressive plyometric circuits, such as hurdle hops and tuck jumps. The study seeks to find a method that reduces fat while preserving or enhancing skeletal muscle, which is vital for metabolic health and regulating glucose uptake.