Does Biological Sex Influence Insulin Sensitivity and Muscle Metabolism Following High-intensity Interval Exercise?

Overview

High-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) is a type of exercise that involves alternating periods of intense exercise with periods of rest. HIIE has been shown to improve many aspects of cardiovascular and metabolic health in a time-efficient manner (e.g., only 20 minutes per exercise session). An important health benefit of exercise is improved blood sugar control, which can help reduce the risk of metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes. A single session of HIIE has been shown to improve blood sugar in males, but it is unknown if females achieve the same health benefit. It is also not fully understood how exercise improves blood sugar in males and females. Therefore, the purpose of this project is 1) to determine if a single session of HIIE improves blood sugar control in males and females, and 2) to evaluate if changes in skeletal muscle can explain the beneficial effects of HIIE on blood sugar.

The primary purpose of this study is to determine if biological sex influences the effects of high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) on insulin sensitivity and muscle mechanisms. The investigators will measure insulin sensitivity and muscle outcomes of participants on two separate occasions: 1) Following 30 minutes of sitting in the lab; and 2) Following a single session of HIIE on a stationary bike. Insulin sensitivity will be measured by taking blood samples after participants consume a sugary drink. Muscle outcomes will be measured by taking a small amount of muscle from the vastus lateralis (thigh) muscle. Groups of male and female participants will be recruited and tested using best practice guidelines for sex-based comparisons of exercise responses. The study will advance knowledge regarding the potential for biological sex to influence the metabolic responses high-intensity exercise.