Differences in Physiological Responses to Interval Training in Cyclists With and Without Interval Training Experience

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine differences in glycolytic metabolite concentrations and work output in response to an all-out interval training session in 23 cyclists with at least 2 years of interval training experience (E) and those inexperienced (IE) in this form of training. The intervention involved subsequent sets of maximal intensity exercise on a cycle ergometer. Each set comprised four 30 s repetitions interspersed with 90 s recovery periods; sets were repeated when blood pH returned to 7.3. Measurements of post-exercise hydrogen (H+) and lactate ion (LA-) concentrations and work output were taken. The experienced cyclists performed significantly more sets of maximal efforts than the inexperienced athletes (5.8 ± 1.2 vs. 4.3 ± 0.9 sets, respectively). Work output decreased in each subsequent set in the IE group and only in the last set in the E group. Distribution of power output changed only in the E group; power decreased in the initial repetitions of set only to increase in the final repetitions. H+ concentration decreased in the third, penultimate, and last sets in the E group and in each subsequent set in the IE group. LA- decreased in the last set in both groups. In conclusion, the experienced cyclists were able to repeatedly induce elevated levels of lactic acidosis. Power output distribution changed with decreased acid–base imbalance. In this way, this group could compensate for a decreased anaerobic metabolism. The above factors allowed cyclists experienced in interval training to perform more sets of maximal exercise without a decrease in power output compared with inexperienced cyclists.

Comparison of Acute Responses to Two Different Cycling Sprint Interval Exercise Protocols with Different Recovery Durations

“…In both SIE protocols, there were not any differences in peak power output. That indicates a lack of pacing strategy, which was reported in other researchers in sprint interval exercise session [25]. The PPO during SIE 6×10"/4' did not decrease, which indicated that a 4-min recovery was sufficient to restore peak power.…”

“…Future studies should consider an individual approach to time and intensity of recovery in order to achieve adequate regeneration and the ability to reproduce peak power, total work and level of physiological response in subsequent series with similar RPE. One of the possible approaches is to control the return of pH (H + ion concentration) to the baseline level (>7.30), in accordance with Hebisz et al [25].…”

Development and Feasibility of a Regulated, Supramaximal High-Intensity Training Program Adapted for Older Individuals

“…One key characteristic of the program is that the intervals were conducted at a regulated and controlled intensity, i.e., at a stipulated TPO during all the intervals, instead of exercise at subjective “maximum effort.” Most non-athletic individuals find it difficult to know how hard they can work during a supramaximal sprint (Hebisz et al, 2016). This is in line with our clinical experiences and experiences from research on physical performance and exercise training among older individuals (Rosendahl et al, 2006; Hedlund et al, 2012; Lindelöf et al, 2012; Jonasson et al, 2017).…”

“…A general problem with existing training protocols that limits their broad applicability is the lack of guidance for determining appropriate training intensity. Inexperienced non-athletes and older individuals appear to lack the experience needed for proper pacing at supramaximal intensities, leading to difficulties in finding an appropriate target intensity (Hebisz et al, 2016). In addition, even if the instruction is to exercise at a maximum effort in all-out sprints, pacing is used to end up with a sustainable and acceptable training intensity (Billaut et al, 2011; Hureau et al, 2014).…”

“…In addition, even if the instruction is to exercise at a maximum effort in all-out sprints, pacing is used to end up with a sustainable and acceptable training intensity (Billaut et al, 2011; Hureau et al, 2014). Hence, without proper guidance, the risk is significant for both under- and over-shooting exercise intensity (Hebisz et al, 2016), compromising training efficiency and increasing the risk of dropout from a negative affect (Perri et al, 2002; Stathi et al, 2010; Follador et al, 2018). If a training program, e.g., supramaximal HIT, is to have a broad, persistent, and profound effect generally, the affective response during exercise is important (Kiviniemi et al, 2007; Williams, 2008; Lee et al, 2016; Cox et al, 2018).…”