Comparison of perceptual responses between different upper-body sprint interval exercise protocols

This study examined the perceptual responses to various upper-body sprint interval exercise (SIE) protocols matched for total work and work/rest ratio. Fourteen active men (24 ± 4 years, BMI = 26.2 ± 2.7 kg/m², body fat = 11.5 ± 4.4%) participated in 3 all-out SIE protocols consisting of battling rope exercise: P10:30 (12 × 10-s bouts with 30-s recovery); P15:45 (8 × 15-s bouts with 45 s recovery); and P30:90 (4 × 30-s bouts with 90-s recovery). During exercise, affective valence (FS +5 to -5), arousal (FAS 1-6), rating of perceived exertion (RPE 6-20), and heart rate (HR) were assessed. Post-exercise, enjoyment, self-efficacy, and intentions were measured. Results revealed a significant decline in FS (p = .02; partial eta squared [η²_p] = 0.27) and a progressive increase in FAS (p = .001; η²_p = 0.86), RPE (p = .001; η²_p = 0.88), and HR (p = .001; η²_p = 0.94), but no protocol X time interaction. Affective valence reached a nadir at values equal to -0.36 ± 3.41 (Cohen's d = -0.49), -0.43 ± 3.75 (Cohen's d = -0.44), and - 0.93 ± 3.49 (Cohen's d = -0.56) in response to P10:30, P15:45, and P30:90, respectively. There were no differences between protocols for enjoyment, intention, or self-efficacy. A negative relationship exhibited between FS and RPE was moderated by participants' tolerance of exercise intensity (β = 1.84, p < .05). Further, the association between FS and future intention was mediated by self-efficacy. Overall, upper-body SIE protocols exhibit similar perceptual responses when volume and work to rest ratio (1:3) are matched. Tolerance of exercise intensity may be used to predict changes in FS during SIE.