Interval exercise effect on aerobic capacity, body composition and in the obese population: a review based on evidences

The present review study had as objectives bring scientific evidences about interval exercise effects on aerobic capacity, body composition and on obese population; analyze evidences about the proportion between exertion and recuperation and make considerations regarding interval exercise prescription for the obese population. There were literature revision on Pubmed, Medline, ISI Web of Knowledge, Ebsco Host and Scopus databases, articles from the year 2000. Evidences demonstrated that interval exercise improves aerobic capacity in athletes and non-athletes, reduces body fat and helps maintaining and increasing fat-free mass. Moreover, studies related that the interval between sessions of interval exercise is more efficient for weight loss if active. Therefore, obese people can be inserted in an interval training program as a way to reduce body fat; however caution must be taken on the prescription of exercise intensity and recuperation.