PMID 37168222

Research
All papers

Adaptive responses of cardiorespiratory system and hormonal parameters to individualized high-intensity interval training using anaerobic power reserve in well-trained rowers

Wang X, Zhao L

Question

Does individualized HIIT using anaerobic power reserve produce different cardiorespiratory and hormonal adaptations than HIIT prescribed as 130% maximal aerobic power in well-trained rowers?

Summary

In national-level male rowers, 6 weeks of rowing HIIT improved VO2max, 2000 m performance, maximal aerobic power, and testosterone-to-cortisol ratio in both groups. Prescribing intensity from anaerobic power reserve did not improve average outcomes more than 130% MAP, but produced more uniform cardiorespiratory and performance responses.

Methodology

  • National-level male rowers.
  • 20 participants.
  • Rowing ergometer.
  • Work intervals: 60 seconds.
  • Recovery: 60 seconds relief, 3 minutes between sets.
  • Intensity: MAP + 30% anaerobic power reserve.
  • Varied by weekly repetition count.
  • 3 sessions/week.
  • 6 weeks.
  • Randomized controlled training study
  • VO2max, 2000 m performance, and Hormones were tracked.

Outcomes

VO2max

Relative VO2max improved in both APR and MAP groups.

APR 55.4 to 59.1 ml/kg/min (+6.6%, p=.005); MAP 54.0 to 57.1 (+5.7%, p=.003).

Improved

2000 m time

Both groups improved 2000 m rowing time by about 1.4-1.5%.

APR 380.6 to 374.9 s, p=.006; MAP 377.6 to 372.2 s, p=.001.

Improved

Response variability

APR-based prescription showed lower variability for several cardiorespiratory and performance adaptations.

Authors reported lower coefficients of variation for VO2max, VO2/HR, VE, Rf, VT1, and performance outcomes.

Improved

Hormones

Testosterone and testosterone-to-cortisol ratio increased in both groups, with no clear between-group advantage.

T/C ratio increased 13.4% in APR and 15.4% in MAP; both p<.01.

Improved

Insights

  • A 60:60 interval structure can improve fitness and performance in well-trained rowers.
  • Intensity personalization may reduce variability, even when mean group gains are similar.
  • Progressing interval count is a practical dose progression.

Limitations

  • Small sample.
  • Male athlete-only population.
  • Sample size was inconsistent between abstract and methods.
  • Diet, sleep, and motivation were not strictly monitored.
  • Rowing ergometer results may not translate to bodyweight HIIT.

Safety

  • No adverse events were stated in the reviewed text.
  • Participants were medically screened.