Change in VO2max and time trial performance in response to high-intensity interval training prescribed using ventilatory threshold

Abstract

This study tested the effects of HIIT prescribed using ventilatory threshold (VT) on changes in VO2max and cycling performance. Fourteen active men and women (age and VO2max = 27 ± 8year and 38 ± 4mL/kg/min) underwent nine sessions of HIIT, and 14 additional men and women (age and VO2max = 22 ± 3year and 40 ± 5mL/kg/min) served as controls. Training was performed on a cycle ergometer at a work rate equal to 130%VT and consisted of eight to ten 1min bouts interspersed with 75s of recovery. At baseline and post-testing, they completed progressive cycling to exhaustion to determine VO2max, and on a separate day, a 5 mile cycling time trial. Compared to the control group, HIIT led to significant increases in VO2max (6%, p = 0.007), cycling performance (2.5%, p = 0.003), and absolute VT (9W, p = 0.005). However, only 57% of participants revealed meaningful increases in VO2max and cycling performance in response to training, and two showed no change in either outcome. A greater volume of HIIT may be needed to maximize the training response for all individuals.