The comparison of high intensity interval training and high intensity functional training among youth discus athletes

High-intensity Functional Training involves functional and dynamic movement integrated with high-intensity training to enhance performance in sports. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) on the Functional Movement Screen, physical, physiological, and performance outcomes among youth discus athletes. A true experimental design with a control group (pre, mid, and post-test) was employed in this study. Thirty-three youth discus athletes (male=17, female=16) were involved in this study and assigned into experimental [HIFT (n=11, Male=6, female=5) and HIIT (n=11, male=6, female=5] groups and control groups (n=11, Male=5, female=6). All Experimental groups underwent 12 weeks of High-Intensity Interval Training and High-Intensity Functional Training, while the control group performed routine discus throwing training. All the parameters were measured at pre-, mid-, and post-tests. Mixed Factorial ANOVA revealed a significant difference in functional movement screen, seated medicine ball throw, counter movement jump, McGill endurance tests, blood lactate, maximum heart rate, rating perceived of exertion, and standing discus throw outcomes for both experimental groups compared to the control (p