Mixed
High-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) induces time-dependent transcriptomic changes in skeletal muscle that persist for at least 48 hours, with the magnitude of expression for 60% of genes being influenced by cardiorespiratory fitness.
To maximize molecular adaptations, ensure your exercise intensity is relative to your current fitness level (e.g., using lactate threshold or max work rate) rather than a fixed percentage. Recognize that the body's molecular response to exercise continues for up to 48 hours, with significant changes occurring well after the workout ends. This applies to both men and women when fitness levels are comparable.
Of these DEGs, the magnitude of differential expression in 60% of genes was influenced by cardiorespiratory fitness.
Why this rating
Large sample size (40 participants), comprehensive time course (9 biopsies), and robust RNA-seq methodology.
Source
Exercise induces time-dependent but not sex-specific transcriptomic changes in healthy human skeletal muscle
Dale F. Taylor et al. · bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory) · 2025
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