The Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training on Both Physical and Cognitive Performance and Recovery

Weisman, I, Ben-Zeev, T, Alon, T, Ostfeld, I, and Hoffman, JR. The effects of high-intensity interval training on both physical and cognitive performance and recovery. J Strength Cond Res 39(5): 547-552, 2025 - This study examined the effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on cognitive and physical performance and recovery. Ten professional adult (7 men and 3 women) team handball players in the Israeli top league were recruited for this study. Subjects (24.5 ± 6.6 years; 179.0 ± 12.1 cm; 80.0 ± 16.5 kg) performed a total of 3 sets of three 200-m shuttle runs with 2 minutes of rest between each sprint and 5 minutes between each set. Cognitive function (Sports Concussion Assessment Tool 5th Edition [SCAT 5], Stroop test), physical performance (isometric midthigh pull [IMTP], countermovement jumps [CMJ]), and reactive agility measures were assessed at baseline (PRE), immediately post (IP), 24-hour (24P), and 48-hour (48P) postexercise. Significant decreases (p's < 0.05) were observed from PRE in CMJ mean power (IP and 48H) and CMJ peak power (IP, 24P and 48P). However, no changes from PRE were noted in peak force, rate of force development, or time to peak force in the IMTP at any time point. No significant change from PRE was noted in acute or delayed memory or concentration in the SCAT 5 assessment. However, significant improvements (p's < 0.05) from PRE were noted in reaction time and speed accuracy in the Stroop test at IP, 24P, and 48P. In addition, a significant improvement in reactive agility was observed between PRE and 48H and between IP and 48H (p = 0.049 and p = 0.035, respectively). The results of this study indicate differences in recovery patterns between cognitive and dynamic physical function in elite handball players following HIIT.