Concomitant application of sprint and high-intensity interval training on maximal oxygen uptake and work output in well-trained cyclists.

Abstract

In this study, we compared the effects of two different training modalities on maximal oxygen uptake and work output. Participants included 26 well-trained mountain bike cyclists were divided into two groups. The first group trained using a conventional endurance protocol at steady-state (moderate) intensity and variable-intensity (high-moderate-low) free of maximal efforts. The second group combined endurance training with a sprint and high-intensity interval training protocol, which, respectively, were based on 30s maximal repetitions and 4min high intensity repetitions. Training duration was 8weeks. A graded exercise test was administered pre- and post-training. Work output, oxygen uptake, minute pulmonary ventilation, heart rate and stroke volume were determined during the test. While work output significantly increased post-training in both groups (P<0.05), the interval training group showed a greater magnitude of change (from 284.4±91.9 to 314.2±95.1kJ) than the endurance training group (from 271.8±73.3 to 283.4±72.3kJ). Significant increases in maximal oxygen uptake (from 57.9±6.8 to 66.6±5.3mlkg(-1)min(-1)), maximal pulmonary ventilation and stroke volume were observed only in the interval training group. An exercise protocol involving endurance and sprint and high-intensity interval training was found to induce positive effects on maximal oxygen uptake in a group of well-trained cyclists with several years athletic experience.