Stanford study pits HIIT against moderate exercise to see which is healthier

NCT ID NCT05513300

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This Stanford study compares high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) in 135 healthy but sedentary adults. Over 12 weeks, participants will exercise three times a week for about an hour. Researchers will measure changes in fitness, muscle strength, body composition, and molecular markers like genes and proteins to see which type of exercise leads to better health outcomes.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

exercise training (high-intensity interval training or moderate-intensity continuous training)

What this could lead to

If successful, this study could help clarify which type of exercise is better for improving fitness and health at the molecular level.

What could go wrong

This is an early-stage observational study with no treatment for a disease. Results may not apply to people who are not healthy or sedentary.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Sedentary Behavior

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Stanford University

    Stanford, California, 94305-2200, United States