Effects of Sprint Interval Training on Brain Fatigue Resistance in Competitive Skateboarders: Evidence from EEG, HRV, and VAS Measures

Yang M, Guo Y, Zhao K

Question

Does 6 weeks of sprint interval training improve resistance to mental fatigue in elite competitive skateboarders as measured by EEG, HRV, and VAS ratings?

Summary

A small single-group study in elite adolescent skateboarders found that 6 weeks of supervised climbing-ergometer sprint interval training was associated with more favorable EEG, HRV, and subjective fatigue patterns after a mental-fatigue task. Without a control group or behavioral Stroop outcomes, the results are exploratory.

Methodology

Elite competitive skateboarders from the Chinese national team.
12 participants.
Vertical climbing ergometer.
Work intervals: 30 s maximal climbing sprint.
Recovery: 150 s passive or low-intensity active recovery.
Intensity: 85%-95% HRmax.
About 45 min.
3 sessions/week.
6 weeks.
Single-group repeated-measures intervention
EEG fatigue indices, HRV, and Subjective fatigue were tracked.

Outcomes

EEG/HRV

Neural and autonomic markers shifted toward better fatigue resistance over time.

Exact effect statistics were not fully captured in the NXML excerpts reviewed.

Improved

VAS fatigue

Mental fatigue stayed stable, motivation and mental exertion increased, and physical fatigue decreased.

Mixed

Insights

Sport-specific sprint modalities can reduce logistical risk versus maximal running or sport-skill sprints.
Maximal intervals in young athletes should include explicit symptom stop rules.

Limitations

Small sample
No control group
Elite athlete population
Proprietary physiological algorithms
No analyzed Stroop behavioral performance
Potential learning and team-training confounding

Safety

Adverse events were not reported.
No athletes withdrew during the 6-week intervention.
Sessions were supervised, heart-rate monitored, and had immediate termination criteria for excessive strain such as dizziness or nausea.