ECSS Paris 2023: OP-AP33
INTRODUCTION: Different training modalities are traditionally used in endurance sports to maximize performance, including moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) and interval-based methods such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or Sprint Interval Training (SIT). Few recent studies have shown that Self-Paced interval training could be of added value to the sports specific literature and practice. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a 12-week self-paced high-intensity interval running program on VO₂max, lactate thresholds, and ventilatory thresholds. Additionally, the study examined the influence of training adherence and mean session intensity on physiological adaptations. METHODS: Twenty moderately active adults (10 men, 10 women) participated in this study. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included DXA body composition analysis and a graded treadmill exercise test measuring VO2peak and lactate tresholds. The 12-week training program consisted of three weekly running sessions: two self-paced high-intensity interval sessions and one low-intensity endurance session. Exercise intensity was self-regulated but retrospectively monitored using heart rate and ratings of perceived exertion. Statistical analyses were performed using paired t-tests, and Pearson correlation testing, or Wilcoxon and Searman correlation tests depending whether normality was guaranteed. RESULTS: VO₂peak values (p < 0.001) and the anaerobic threshold (p = 0.04) significantly increased after 12 weeks of self-paced training while the aerobic treshold did not evolve significantly. Anthropometric indices such as fat mass significantly decreased (−4.7%, p = 0.021), while lean body mass percentage slightly increased (+0.96%, p = 0.03). No significant correlations were found between changes in peak VO₂ and mean training intensity (p = 0.416) or adherence (p = 0.776). CONCLUSION: A 12-week self-paced high-intensity interval training program can induce significant improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition, even without strict intensity prescription. The absence of correlations between physiological adaptations and mean intensity or adherence suggests a complex and individualized training response, in which perceived exertion and other factors may play a key role. This training modality may represent a practical and effective alternative in autonomous training or reconditioning contexts.
Read CV Bert MI CelieECSS Paris 2023: OP-AP33
INTRODUCTION:
High intensity interval training (HIIT) intensity prescription is commonly expressed relative to maximal heart rate or oxygen uptake (1). An alternate approach involves anchoring intensity to the metabolic threshold critical power (CP; 1). CP denotes a ‘fatigue threshold’ that distinguishes the intensity at which physiological responses to exercise can (
ECSS Paris 2023: OP-AP33
INTRODUCTION: Performance in the 500-m kayak event relies on the integration of aerobic and anaerobic metabolism, functional power production, paddling economy, and the ability to sustain high intensities close to the second ventilatory threshold (VT₂). High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and sprint interval training (SIT) are widely used time-efficient strategies; however, the interaction between functional performance indices and molecular adaptations to different intensity domains remains insufficient regarding elite paddlers. METHODS: Thirty-two national-level kayak athletes were allocated to four groups: HIIT (110% VO₂peak), SIT (≈140% VO₂peak/VO₂max), COMB (HIIT+SIT +continuous training), and control (CON). Athletes completed 18 training sessions over six weeks. Measurements included VO₂max, blood lactate concentration ([La²⁺]), HRmax, power output at VO₂max (POVO₂max), paddling economy (POPE), power output at VT₂ (POVT₂), and 500-m time-trial performance, assessed at PRE, POST, and after 15 and 30 days of detraining. Resting concentrations of IL-6 and VEGF-A were measured at PRE and POST. Data were analyzed using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA and Pearson correlation analysis (ΔPOST–PRE). RESULTS: VO₂max exhibited only modest, non-significant time effects, primarily in the HIIT group. In contrast, functional determinants of performance (POVO₂max, POPE, and POVT₂) improved significantly in HIIT, SIT, and COMB, accompanied by meaningful improvements in 500-m performance, with partial attenuation during detraining. Resting IL-6 decreased significantly following HIIT and SIT, while VEGF-A increased significantly only after HIIT. Correlation analysis identified VT₂ as a central determinant of performance, with changes in POVT₂ strongly associated with changes in 500-m time. CONCLUSION: HIIT, SIT, and combined training induce substantial improvements in functional performance determinants and 500-m kayaking performance, despite minimal changes in VO₂max. VT₂ emerges as a functional “hub” integrating central and peripheral adaptations, including power production, economy, and molecular responses (IL-6, VEGF-A), appears to be a more sensitive indicator of competitive performance than VO₂max in national-level kayak athletes.
Read CV APOSTOLOS PAPANDREOUECSS Paris 2023: OP-AP33