The objective of this study was to do a systematic review of the literature about the characteristics of training programs based on the high intensity interval modality (HIIT) in elderly, and at the same time, to describe the effects on physical and functional capacity in this population. A literature search of 5 databases (DIALNET, DOAJ, Elsevier, PubMed and Web of Science) was performed. The inclusion criteria included experimental studies applied in people older than 60 years. The PEDro scale was used for quality evaluation of eligible studies. The search identified 126 articles and evaluated 12 articles in full text. All studies were of good methodological quality and had a low risk of bias. In conclusion, HIIT training has been applied for a period of 6 to 16 weeks, in the "HIIT-aerobic" modality with positive effects about the aerobic and functional capacity of the elderly, it has also reduced the pathological burden in rheumatoid arthritis, obesity and / or dynapenia.