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Research Paper | Physiology Science | Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026 | Pages: 326 - 333 | India
Effect of Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training on Heart Rate Variability and Autonomic Function in College Students: An Interventional Study
Abstract: Background: Heart Rate Variability (HRV) reflects autonomic nervous system balance and is an important indicator of cardiovascular and psychological health. Reduced HRV is commonly associated with stress and anxiety among college students. Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training (MICT) has been proposed as an effective intervention for improving autonomic regulation. Aim: To evaluate the effect of an 8-week Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training (MICT) program on HRV among college students. Methods: This interventional pre-post study included 70 college students aged 18-35 years. Baseline anthropometric, cardiovascular, and HRV parameters were recorded before intervention. Participants underwent an 8-week MICT program involving regular moderate-intensity aerobic exercise. HRV parameters including SDNN, RMSSD, NN50, pNN50, LF, HF, LF/HF ratio, total power, and mean R-R interval were assessed before and after intervention. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. Results: After 8 weeks of MICT, significant improvement was observed in HRV indices indicating enhanced parasympathetic activity and autonomic balance. RMSSD, HF power, NN50, and pNN50 increased, while LF/HF ratio and resting pulse rate showed a declining trend. Improvements in mean R-R interval and total HRV power were also noted. Modest reductions in blood pressure were observed following intervention. Conclusion: Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training significantly improved HRV and autonomic regulation among college students. Regular MICT may be an effective non-pharmacological strategy for improving cardiovascular health, stress resilience, and autonomic function in young adults.
Keywords: Heart Rate Variability, Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training, Autonomic Nervous System, College Students, Cardiovascular Health, Exercise Intervention
How to Cite?: Dr. Nupoor Srivastava, Dr. Manish Kumar, Dr. Akash Srivastava, Dr. Shraddha Singh, Dr. Dilip Kumar Verma, Dr. Ashutosh Singh, "Effect of Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training on Heart Rate Variability and Autonomic Function in College Students: An Interventional Study", Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 326-333, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26704101924, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26704101924