In August 2017 researchers from Australia and Brazil reviewed the scientific literature to compare the effectiveness of high-intensity interval training, sprint interval training and moderate-intensity continuous training in controlling body fat. Of the 6,074 studies initially identified only 31 studies were included in the review as these covered an exercise regime with a minimum 4-week duration and within-group and between-group comparisons for total body fat percentage and fat mass. Results showed that there were no differences between high-intensity interval training/sprint interval training and moderate-intensity continuous training for any body fat outcome. When time commitment and/or energy expenditure was taken into consideration the analysis favoured moderate-intensity continuous training for total body fat reduction. However, neither short-term high-intensity interval training/sprint interval training nor moderate-intensity continuous training produced any meaningful reductions in body fat.
Keating SE et al. A systematic review and meta-analysis of interval training versus moderate-intensity continuous training on body adiposity. Obes Rev. 2017 Aug;18(8):943-964