The Claim
High-intensity interval training via running or cycling reduces total body fat mass and visceral fat mass in men with overweight or obesity over a 12-week period, with no significant difference in effect between the two modalities.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
In men with overweight or obesity, 12 weeks of high-intensity interval training using either running or cycling reduces total body fat and visceral fat to a similar degree.
See the scientific wording
Both running and cycling high-intensity interval training reduce total body fat mass and visceral fat mass in men with overweight or obesity over 12 weeks, with no significant difference between modalities, indicating that either modality is effective for overall fat reduction.
Short bursts of intense exercise burn a lot of energy, which triggers the body to release stress hormones that break down fat cells. At the same time, gut bacteria produce chemicals that reduce inflammation and improve how the body uses fat for fuel. Together, these processes cause fat to be removed from the whole body and especially from around the organs, regardless of whether the exercise is running or cycling.
What the research says
1 studyBoth running and cycling in short, intense bursts three times a week for 12 weeks helped men lose belly fat and overall body fat, with neither exercise being clearly better for total or deep belly fat — so either one works well.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.