Order effect of an 8-week concurrent training program on the maximal fat oxidation.

Background: Concurrent training (CT) is a common method used in health-oriented training programs. However, its design needs to be explored in order to inform practitioners about the most effective methods to improve different health-related markers (e.g., maximal fat oxidation [MFO]). Thus, this study aims to determine the order effect of an 8 week CT on the MFO of recreationally trained young adults. Methods: Twenty participants were allocated in two different groups to perform the CT differing only in the exercise sequence. The endurance training (ET) consisted of 4 to 6 repetitions of 30 s all-out running sprints with 4 min of active recovery. The resistance training (RT) consisted of 4 to 6 sets at 60 to 80% of the one-repetition maximum with 5 to 1 repetition in reserve of back squat and bench press exercises. 15 min of rest were established between exercise modes. Previous and after the CT program, participants performed a graded exercise test where MFO was determined. Results: There was a significant time effect on MFO (p = 0.044). A moderate increase was observed in both ET + RT (Mean change: 0.11 [− 0.02 to 0.25] g/min; Effect size: 0.61 [− 0.12 to 1.35]) and RT + ET (Mean change: 0.07 [− 0.01 to 0.16] g/min; Effect size: 0.62 [− 0.12 to 1.36]) groups. No significant interaction was observed (p = 0.658). Conclusions: The 8 week CT program improved the muscle oxidative capacity of recreationally trained young adults regardless of the exercise sequence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]