From the Guidelines
There is no specific "HIIT panel" of medical tests in standard healthcare practice, as High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is an exercise methodology, not a medical test panel. When considering HIIT, individuals might undergo a pre-exercise health screening that typically includes measurements of resting heart rate, blood pressure, body composition assessment, and possibly a cardiovascular stress test if there are concerns about heart health, as supported by the latest guidelines on facilitating positive health behaviors and well-being to improve health outcomes 1. Some fitness professionals might also assess baseline fitness through tests like the VO2 max test (measuring maximum oxygen consumption), lactate threshold testing, or functional movement screenings to establish starting points and identify potential limitations. Key components of a pre-exercise screening for HIIT may include:
- Resting heart rate and blood pressure measurements
- Body composition assessment
- Cardiovascular stress test (if indicated)
- VO2 max test or other fitness assessments
- Functional movement screenings These assessments help determine if HIIT is appropriate for an individual and establish a safe starting intensity, especially considering the potential for HIIT to elicit significant physiologic and metabolic adaptations, as noted in the 2025 standards of care in diabetes 1. For those with existing health conditions or who are over 40, a physician consultation is recommended before beginning any high-intensity exercise program to ensure safety and appropriate exercise prescription.
From the Research
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Panel Tests
The tests included in a HIIT panel are not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, based on the information available, the following tests may be relevant:
- Cardiovascular fitness tests, such as VO2peak measurements 2, 3
- Blood tests, including complete blood counts, to monitor physiological changes and potential risks associated with HIIT 4
- Assessments of aerobic capacity, serum lipid profiles, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers to evaluate the effectiveness of HIIT programs 3, 5
Physiological Measures
Physiological measures that may be included in a HIIT panel are:
- Heart rate (HR) targets derived from predicted maximal HR (HRmax) or objective measurements of HRmax 6
- VO2peak measurements to assess cardiorespiratory fitness 2, 3
- Reticulocyte count, white blood cell count and differential, and platelet count as part of a complete blood count 4
Clinical Considerations
Clinical considerations for assessing and monitoring HIIT programs include: