Effect of Short-term Altitude Training on Sprint Running Performance

Abstract

It is suggested that intermittent hypoxic training (IHT) improved repeated sprint ability and maximal 30-s cycling sprint (Faiss et al, 2013; Hamlin et al., 2010; Kasai et al., 2015). Therefore, IHT may suitable for enhancing sprint performance. However, IHT and/or altitude training have not yet been conducted in track events sprinters. PURPOSE: The purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of short-term altitude high intensity training on sea level sprint running performance in well-trained 400-m runners. METHODS: Eighteen college male 400-m runners were assigned to either a Hypoxic group (n = 9) or a Normoxic group (n = 9) and performed high intensity running training twice a day for 5 days. Both groups trained same high intensity training program in all weather running track. Hypoxic group trained and rested in Hida-Ontake Kogen Highland Training Area (1,700-1,800m). Before and after the training, subjects were completed 60-m and 400-m maximal running test, and vertical jump test. The post-training test periods were conducted 2, 7, 14, 21, 28 days after the final training session. RESULTS: After the 5 days of high intensity training, no significant changes in 400-m running time in both groups. However, percentage changes of 400-m running time were significantly higher in Hypoxic group (2.1 ± 1.0 %) than in Normoxic group (1.0 ± 0.9 %). 30-m time during the latter half of 60-m running was significantly increased in 7-days after training (Hypoxic: 3.15 ± 0.04 vs 3.23 ± 0.03 sec, Normoxic: 3.16 ± 0.03 vs 3.22 ± 0.03 sec) and significantly decreased in 21-days after training (Hypoxic: 3.08 ± 0.03 sec, Normoxic: 3.11 ± 0.03 sec) compared to before training. There were no significant changes in vertical jump in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that altitude high intensity training is effective for 400-m runners.