Similar Time Near VO (2) max Regardless of Work Rate Manipulation in Cycling Interval Training

The current study aimed to compare time spent above 90% V. (O) 2max (tV. (O) 2max) during 3 work-matched interval training protocols comprising 8x60-second exercise efforts with decreasing, increasing, or constant work rate distribution within each exercise interval. Ten healthy male subjects (age: 27.6 +/- 5.0 years; V. (O) 2max: 3.82 +/- 0.52L center dot min-1) performed an incremental test to determine V. (O) 2max and peak power output (Pmax). During visits 2, 3, and 4, three work-matched interval training sessions comprising 8x60s efforts: 60s active recovery with the power output held constant (100%Pmax; ITCON), decreasing (from 110 to 90%Pmax; ITDEC), or increasing (from 90 to 110%Pmax; ITINC) linearly throughout each work interval. Time sustained above 90% of V. (O) 2max (tV. (O) 2max) or HRmax (tHRmax), blood lactate concentrations (BLC) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured. The tV. (O) 2max (ITCON: 274 +/- 132; ITDEC: 313 +/- 102; ITINC: 310 +/- 113s, P=0.37), tHRmax (ITCON: 396 +/- 180; ITDEC: 441 +/- 207; ITINC: 390 +/- 212s, P=0.47), BLC (P=0.73), and final RPE (P=0.75) were similar among protocols. In conclusion, work-matched interval training induced similar time near V. (O) 2max and associated physiological responses regardless of work rate manipulation.

Automated summary

The study found that work-matched interval training induced similar time near V. (O) 2max and associated physiological responses regardless of work rate manipulation.