Author(s): CASRI, T., NOVAKOVA, M., PEKNY, M., Institution: CASRI, Country: CZECH REPUBLIC, Abstract-ID: 1678

INTRODUCTION:
Sprint kayaking involves high-intensity efforts lasting approximately 30 seconds to over 3 minutes, depending on race distance (200–1000 m), requiring substantial contributions from both anaerobic and aerobic energy systems. Performance is determined not only by peak power output but also by the ability to sustain high power under increasing metabolic stress.

Training periodization in elite kayakers typically progresses from aerobic and maximal strength development in the preparation phase toward more race-specific, high-intensity work during the competitive season. While peak power and VO₂max are commonly monitored, less attention has been paid to seasonal changes in power sustainability and fatigue dynamics during supramaximal efforts.

The Wingate test is widely used to assess anaerobic performance; however, variables such as mean power and fatigue index may better reflect sport-specific adaptations than peak power alone. Longitudinal data describing seasonal shifts in these parameters in elite sprint kayakers remain limited. Therefore, examining intra-seasonal changes in Wingate-derived performance characteristics may provide valuable insight for performance monitoring and training optimization.
METHODS:
Twenty-five elite Czech national team athletes (15 men, 10 women) completed a 30-s Wingate test on a kayak ergometer during the preparatory period (January) and the competitive season (June). Peak power (PP), mean power (MP), and body mass–normalized power (W·kg⁻¹) were analysed. Blood lactate concentration was measured 5 and 7 min post-exercise.
RESULTS:
During the competitive season, peak power decreased significantly, whereas mean power and relative mean power increased. In men, peak power decreased by 32 W (p = 0.005) and mean power increased by 25 W (p < 0.001); in women, peak power decreased by 25 W (p = 0.019), while absolute mean power remained unchanged. Relative mean power increased in both sexes. Post-exercise blood lactate responses did not differ between seasons (p > 0.05).
CONCLUSION:
Elite sprint kayakers demonstrate a seasonal shift in anaerobic performance characterized primarily by improved power sustainability rather than increases in peak power during the competitive season. These findings suggest that competition-specific training enhances the ability to maintain high-intensity output under fatigue. The Wingate test appears sensitive to these training-induced adaptations and may serve as a practical tool for long-term performance monitoring in elite sprint kayaking.