Title : The impact of high-intensity circuit training on cardiometabolic and cardiorespiratory markers in transgender individuals in Multan
Abstract:
Purpose: Transgenders are the most neglected population in South Asia especially in Pakistan. Before 2018 they do not have any rights and privileges. The first study was planned to investigate the effects of high-intensity circuit training on cardiometabolic and cardiorespiratory parameters in the transgender of the Multan region.
Methods: A cross-sectional experimental study was conducted from June to July 2024 at the Government Girls Comprehensive Higher Secondary School in Gulgasht Colony, Multan. Forty-eight transgender individuals aged 16-27 years were selected using non-probability convenience sampling. The HIIT protocol consisted of four 4-minute bouts at 90-95% HR peak followed by exercises such as rope jumping, jump squats (10-15 reps), running (5-10 min) and Russian twists. The total protocol consists of 15 days (35 minutes/session/day) Cardio metabolic parameters (uric acid, glucose, cholesterol, low and high-density lipids, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, temperature, body mass index, body weight and waist to hip ratio), cardiorespiratory parameters (heart rate, oxygen saturation, and respiration rate), and physiological parameters (agility, physical efficiency index, vertical jump) was measured before and after high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program.
Results: Significant improvements were observed in multiple parameters after the training. Cholesterol and glucose levels significantly decreased (p = 0.000), while systolic blood pressure, BMI, body fat, and heart rate decreased significantly (p = 0.005). Diastolic blood pressure and uric acid levels also reduced (p = 0.001), and oxygen saturation significantly increased (p = 0.000). Agility scores demonstrated a substantial rise (p = 0.000).
Conclusion: High-intensity circuit training effectively improved cardiometabolic health and physical performance in transgender individuals. These findings suggest its potential in enhancing health outcomes in this population, especially in areas related to metabolic health and physical fitness.
