Effects of high-intensity interval training on canoeing performance

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Canoeing Performance

Background:

• Optimizing training for flat-water canoeists requires understanding the distinct physiological demands of varying race distances.
• High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) are common training modalities with potentially different effects on performance determinants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of four-week HIIT versus MICT programs on endurance determinants, aerobic, and anaerobic performances in flat-water canoeists.
• To evaluate the impact of these training methods on specific canoeing performance metrics, including peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and critical velocity (CV).

Main Methods:

• Fourteen well-trained male flat-water canoeists were assigned to either an HIIT or MICT group for a four-week training program on a canoeing ergometer.
• Pre- and post-training assessments included a graded exercise test (GXT) and fixed-distance performance tests (200m, 500m, 1000m) to measure VO2peak, power at VO2peak, canoeing economy, and critical velocity (CV).
• HIIT involved seven 2-minute bouts at 90% VO2peak with 1-minute rest, while MICT involved 20 minutes of continuous exercise at 65% VO2peak, three times per week.

Main Results:

• The HIIT group showed significant improvements in 200m performance and power at VO2peak.
• The MICT group demonstrated significant improvements in 500m and 1000m performance, as well as critical velocity (CV).
• No significant differences in overall performance variables were observed between the HIIT and MICT groups post-training.

Conclusions:

• Four weeks of HIIT is an effective training strategy for enhancing short-distance (200m) canoeing performance and peak power output.
• Moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) is more effective for improving middle-distance (500m, 1000m) canoeing performances and aerobic capacity (CV).
• Both training modalities offer distinct benefits, suggesting a potential need for periodized training incorporating both HIIT and MICT for well-rounded canoeist development.