Comparison of sprint training and high intensity interval training on oxidative stress and aerobic capacity in male soccer players

Abstract

The study compared the two popular modes of training: repeated sprint and interval, in terms of oxidative load and aerobic capacity. 20 male collegiate soccer players were assigned into either a repeated sprint training (RST) or high intensity interval training (HIIT) group. Training protocols were for a period of 4 weeks (3 times/week). Serum levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione, in addition to maximal oxygen uptake and maximum voluntary isometric contraction for quadriceps and hamstrings were measured before training and within 24 h after the completion of training. Significant improvement (P≤0.05) in antioxidant defence response and leg strength was seen in both groups. However, improvement in aerobic capacity was non-significant in RST as compared to HIIT. These findings indicate that both RST and HIIT can be used as a conditioning exercise to alleviate exercise-induced oxidative stress in the competition phase in addition to improvement in aerobic capacity.