Optimizing Interval Training Through Power-Output Variation Within the Work Intervals

in International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance

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Arthur H. Bossi
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Cristian Mesquida
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Louis Passfield
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Bent R. Rønnestad
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James G. Hopker
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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2019-0260
Keywords:
intensity prescription; time at V˙O2max; elite cycling; maximal aerobic power; exercise hyperpnea
First Published Online:
03 Apr 2020
In Print:
Volume 15: Issue 7
Page Range:
982–989
Restricted access

Purpose: Maximal oxygen uptake (V˙O2max) is a key determinant of endurance performance. Therefore, devising high-intensity interval training (HIIT) that maximizes stress of the oxygen-transport and -utilization systems may be important to stimulate further adaptation in athletes. The authors compared physiological and perceptual responses elicited by work intervals matched for duration and mean power output but differing in power-output distribution. Methods: Fourteen cyclists (V˙O2max 69.2 [6.6] mL·kg−1·min−1) completed 3 laboratory visits for a performance assessment and 2 HIIT sessions using either varied-intensity or constant-intensity work intervals. Results: Cyclists spent more time at >90%V˙O2max during HIIT with varied-intensity work intervals (410 [207] vs 286 [162] s, P = .02), but there were no differences between sessions in heart-rate- or perceptual-based training-load metrics (all P ≥ .1). When considering individual work intervals, minute ventilation (V˙E) was higher in the varied-intensity mode (F = 8.42, P = .01), but not respiratory frequency, tidal volume, blood lactate concentration [La], ratings of perceived exertion, or cadence (all F ≤ 3.50, ≥ .08). Absolute changes (Δ) between HIIT sessions were calculated per work interval, and Δ total oxygen uptake was moderately associated with ΔV˙E (r = .36, P = .002). Conclusions: In comparison with an HIIT session with constant-intensity work intervals, well-trained cyclists sustain higher fractions of V˙O2max when work intervals involved power-output variations. This effect is partially mediated by an increased oxygen cost of hyperpnea and not associated with a higher [La], perceived exertion, or training-load metrics.

Bossi, Passfield, and Hopker are with the School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Kent, Chatham, United Kingdom. Mesquida is with the Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain. Passfield is also with the Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada. Bossi, Mesquida, and Rønnestad are with the Dept of Sport Science, Inland Norway University of Applied Science, Lillehammer, Norway.

Hopker (J.G.Hopker@kent.ac.uk) is corresponding author.
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