A recent study published in Scientific Reports has brought fresh insights to the growing popularity of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) among obese adults, raising important questions about how different HIIT protocols might influence energy metabolism after exercise (source). As Thailand continues to grapple with rising obesity rates and associated chronic health risks, this research offers timely guidance on designing effective exercise routines for lasting health benefits.
Obesity remains a pressing public health challenge in Thailand, with the Ministry of Public Health reporting that nearly one-third of Thai adults are classified as overweight or obese. For many, weight loss is a daunting goal, made even more complex by the need to not just burn calories during exercise, but to also keep the body’s metabolism elevated afterwards—a key factor in achieving and maintaining fat loss. The latest findings from this Scientific Reports study, therefore, are particularly relevant to Thai readers seeking realistic and efficient ways to improve their long-term health.
The study’s core investigation compared the effects and after-exercise energy expenditure of different kinds of HIIT protocols in obese adults. While traditional cardio (steady-state aerobic exercise) has long been recommended for weight management, HIIT—consisting of short, intense bursts of activity followed by recovery periods—has surged in popularity due to its time-efficient format and growing body of supportive evidence. Researchers evaluated not only how much energy participants expended during their workouts, but critically, how their metabolic rates responded in the hours after each type of HIIT session. This “afterburn effect,” or excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), can lead to greater caloric burn even at rest, making it a valuable aspect of any weight loss strategy.
Initial findings suggest that not all HIIT workouts are created equal when it comes to boosting post-exercise energy metabolism for adults living with obesity. The study compared various HIIT forms, which might include different interval durations or intensities—though the lead does not specify exact protocols, the general takeaway is significant. Some HIIT regimens resulted in a longer-lasting and higher EPOC effect than others, meaning these participants continued to burn more calories at rest for a longer time after their workout had ended. This finding echoes previous international research highlighting the efficiency of certain interval patterns at maximizing the afterburn effect (NIH source).
Expert commentary underscores the practical importance of these results. Dr. Narongrit Suksomboon, a sports medicine specialist at Mahidol University (not associated with the study), explains, “For people trying to lose weight, maintaining a higher metabolism after exercise can be as important as the workout itself. These findings help point us toward training prescriptions that offer real, lasting metabolic benefits.” He adds that this research could help Thai fitness instructors tailor HIIT classes in ways that optimize after-exercise calorie burn, instead of relying on generic routines.
The application for Thai audiences is clear. While many gyms and community centers across the country have begun offering HIIT sessions, the new research signals that tweaking intervals or rest periods could have a meaningful impact on participants’ weight loss progress over time. With Thailand’s unique cultural context—busy lifestyles, changing dietary habits, and an aging population—efficient, science-backed exercise options are more valuable than ever.
Historically, exercise recommendations in Thailand have mostly followed international trends, but emerging local research and adaptation are helping to refine best practices for Thai bodies and lifestyles. Traditional forms of movement, like ram muay (Thai boxing dance), aerobic group classes in Bangkok parks, or energetic rounds of sepak takraw, can all incorporate interval-style training principles. The challenge will be integrating the latest HIIT science in a way that is both accessible and enjoyable for Thais of all ages.
Looking forward, the impact of this research could influence not only individual exercise routines but also policy recommendations from healthcare authorities. As clinicians and public health officials seek to stem the tide of obesity-related illness—including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease—in Thailand, new exercise guidelines may increasingly emphasize evidence-based HIIT strategies that maximize after-exercise energy expenditure. Future studies, ideally including Thai cohorts, will be crucial for adapting global findings to our local context.
For Thai readers, the actionable takeaway is simple: if you’re looking to burn more calories and lose weight, it’s not just about how hard you work during exercise, but what kind of interval training you choose. Speak with a certified fitness professional to design HIIT workouts that fit your abilities and health needs, paying attention to interval structure for sustained metabolic benefits. As the research base grows, stay updated on evolving recommendations by following reliable sources like the Bangkok Post or the Thai Ministry of Public Health.
For further reading, the original study can be accessed at Scientific Reports. Additional background on HIIT and EPOC can be found via the US National Institutes of Health.