Introduction and Objectives: This study aimed to compare the effects of High-intensity interval swimming (HIIS) and Low-intensity continuous swimming (LICS) on appetite response and ghrelin levels in overweight female lifeguards. Materials and Methods: A total of 14 overweight female lifeguards from Neyshabur were selected based on inclusion criteria. Participants completed two crossover sessions: one HIIS (6 × 50m maximal freestyle sprints with each sprint + rest cycle totaling 5 minutes; approximately ~30 min) and one LICS (1000m continuous swimming; ~30 min). After a standardized breakfast and 60-min rest, exercise protocols were performed. After a 60-minute rest period, participants could request lunch. Appetite questionnaires were completed before, immediately after, one hour post-exercise, and at the time of lunch request. Blood samples were collected to measure ghrelin and lactate levels before and after exercise and at the time of lunch request. Results: Significant differences were observed between the two swimming protocols in ghrelin levels (p=0.026), hunger sensation (p=0.04), and fullness sensation (p=0.03). However, no significant differences were found in lactate levels (p=0.79), desire to eat (p=0.63), or lunch calorie intake (p=0.32). Conclusion: LICS appears more effective than HIIS in modulating ghrelin levels and suppressing appetite. Given the absence of compensatory food intake during lunch, LICS may be a viable strategy for appetite control in overweight populations.
Maddah,S. and donyaei,A. (2026). Comparing the effects of high-intensity and low-intensity swimming on appetite and ghrelin levels in overweight female lifeguards. (e5060). Sport Physiology, (), e5060 doi: 10.22089/spj.2026.18352.2387
MLA
Maddah,S. , and donyaei,A. . "Comparing the effects of high-intensity and low-intensity swimming on appetite and ghrelin levels in overweight female lifeguards" .e5060 , Sport Physiology, , , 2026, e5060. doi: 10.22089/spj.2026.18352.2387
HARVARD
Maddah S., donyaei A. (2026). 'Comparing the effects of high-intensity and low-intensity swimming on appetite and ghrelin levels in overweight female lifeguards', Sport Physiology, (), e5060. doi: 10.22089/spj.2026.18352.2387
CHICAGO
S. Maddah and A. donyaei, "Comparing the effects of high-intensity and low-intensity swimming on appetite and ghrelin levels in overweight female lifeguards," Sport Physiology, (2026): e5060, doi: 10.22089/spj.2026.18352.2387
VANCOUVER
Maddah S., donyaei A. Comparing the effects of high-intensity and low-intensity swimming on appetite and ghrelin levels in overweight female lifeguards. Sport Physiology, 2026; (): e5060. doi: 10.22089/spj.2026.18352.2387