Portal de Periódicos da CAPES

Interval training program optimization in highly trained endurance cyclists

2002; Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; Volume: 34; Issue: 11 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1097/00005768-200211000-00017

1530-0315

Paul B. Laursen, Cecilia M. Shing, Jonathan M. Peake, Jeff S. Coombes, David Jenkins,

Muscle metabolism and nutrition

LAURSEN, P. B., C. M. SHING, J. M. PEAKE, J. S. COOMBES, and D. G. JENKINS. Interval training program optimization in highly trained endurance cyclists. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc., Vol. 34, No. 11, pp. 1801–1807, 2002. Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of three different high-intensity interval training (HIT) regimens on endurance performance in highly trained endurance athletes. Methods Before, and after 2 and 4 wk of training, 38 cyclists and triathletes (mean ± SD; age = 25 ± 6 yr; mass = 75 ± 7 kg; V̇O2peak = 64.5 ± 5.2 mL·kg−1·min−1) performed: 1) a progressive cycle test to measure peak oxygen consumption (V̇O2peak) and peak aerobic power output (PPO), 2) a time to exhaustion test (Tmax) at their V̇O2peak power output (Pmax), as well as 3) a 40-km time-trial (TT40). Subjects were matched and assigned to one of four training groups (G1, N = 8, 8 × 60% Tmax at Pmax, 1:2 work:recovery ratio; G2, N = 9, 8 × 60% Tmax at Pmax, recovery at 65% HRmax; G3, N = 10, 12 × 30 s at 175% PPO, 4.5-min recovery; GCON, N = 11). In addition to G1, G2, and G3 performing HIT twice per week, all athletes maintained their regular low-intensity training throughout the experimental period. Results All HIT groups improved TT40 performance (+4.4 to +5.8%) and PPO (+3.0 to +6.2%) significantly more than GCON (−0.9 to +1.1%;P < 0.05). Furthermore, G1 (+5.4%) and G2 (+8.1%) improved their V̇O2peak significantly more than GCON (+1.0%;P < 0.05). Conclusion The present study has shown that when HIT incorporates Pmax as the interval intensity and 60% of Tmax as the interval duration, already highly trained cyclists can significantly improve their 40-km time trial performance. Moreover, the present data confirm prior research, in that repeated supramaximal HIT can significantly improve 40-km time trial performance.