The study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition aimed to assess the effects of Tabata-style functional training, with or without cinnamon supplementation, on the performance of the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), serum irisin levels, and body composition in military cadets. This randomized controlled trial involved 48 male cadets with an average age of 22.8 years, who were divided into four groups: Tabata training, cinnamon supplementation, a combination of both, and a control group.
The intervention lasted six weeks, with Tabata training performed three times a week, consisting of 8 sets of 20 seconds of work followed by 10 seconds of rest, aimed at achieving 87%-95% of maximum heart rate. Cinnamon supplementation was administered three times daily at a total of 1.5 grams per day.
Results indicated a significant group × time interaction for ACFT scores, serum irisin levels, and various body composition markers. Post hoc analysis revealed that both the Tabata and combination groups showed significant improvements in ACFT scores compared to the control group. Specific improvements were noted in multiple components of the ACFT, including the Deadlift, Standing Power Throw, Release Pushups, Sprint-Drag-Carry, Leg Tuck, and 2-Mile Run.
Moreover, the combination group exhibited the most significant increase in serum irisin levels. All intervention groups demonstrated significant reductions in body weight, body mass index (BMI), and visceral fat index (VFI) compared to the control group. Notably, the Tabata group achieved a significantly lower body fat percentage (BFP) than the other groups, while lean body mass (LBM) increased significantly across all intervention groups compared to the control group.
In conclusion, the findings suggest that Tabata-style training combined with cinnamon supplementation can markedly enhance performance, body composition, and circulating irisin levels in young male military cadets. This study highlights the potential benefits of integrating high-intensity exercise with targeted nutritional interventions for improving functional capacity.
What this study does not show
This study does not establish a direct causal relationship between cinnamon supplementation and improved fitness outcomes, nor does it assess long-term effects beyond the intervention period.
Evidence scorecard
- Analytic validity: established
- Clinical validity: established
- Clinical utility: partial