For metabolic syndrome, mixed training tops the table.
Combined aerobic and resistance training ranked highest for improving body mass index, waist circumference, LDL cholesterol and fasting glucose in metabolic syndrome; high-volume HIIT was most effective for body fat percentage.
Compiled by FitTools from the study cited below
The citation, figures and study details on this page are taken mechanically from the source record. No human editor has reviewed it.
Published 25 July 2026
- Study design
- Study
- Evidence
- preliminary
- Published
- 25 July 2026
Key takeaway
What it shows: Network meta-analysis of 53 studies, 2,948 participants; most evidence rated low or very low certainty; no single modality superior across all metabolic syndrome components; phenotype-specific outcomes suggest heterogeneous effectiveness.
Study details
- Design
- Study
- Journal
- iScience
- Published
- 25 July 2026
What they did
Network meta-analysis of 53 trials (2,948 participants) comparing ten exercise modalities (including AT+RT, HV-HIIT, LV-HIIT, TCE and others) for metabolic syndrome outcomes: BMI, waist circumference, lipids, fasting glucose, blood pressure, body fat.
What they found
AT+RT ranked highest for BMI, waist circumference, LDL, and fasting glucose. HV-HIIT was most effective for body fat percentage. LV-HIIT showed greatest benefits for total cholesterol, triglycerides, and diastolic BP. Traditional Chinese exercise ranked highest for HDL and systolic BP.
Where it fits
No single exercise modality improves all metabolic syndrome components equally. Evidence supports phenotype-tailored exercise prescription based on individual metabolic abnormalities, though certainty is low.
The source
Comparative efficacy of various exercise therapies for metabolic syndrome a systematic review and network meta-analysis. iScience 2026
DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2026.116801
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