Physiological Response Differences between Run and Cycle High Intensity Interval Training Program in Recreational...

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Recreational Running

Background:

• High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a popular training method for improving endurance.
• The modality of HIIT (e.g., running vs. cycling) may differentially affect performance and physiological adaptations in female athletes.
• Recreational runners may benefit from alternative training methods to enhance performance while minimizing injury risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of four-week running (HIIT_run) versus cycling (HIIT_bike) high-intensity interval training on endurance running performance and physiological variables in recreational female athletes.
• To investigate potential differences in adaptations between HIIT modalities.
• To explore the relationship between training adaptations and running performance improvements.

Main Methods:

• Fourteen recreational female runners were randomly assigned to either a HIIT_run or HIIT_bike group.
• Both groups completed two weekly HIIT sessions for four weeks, involving high-intensity intervals (6 x 2 min at 95% HR_max and 4 x 1 min all-out efforts).
• Measurements included maximal oxygen consumption (VO_2max), 10 km running time trial performance, and session-specific physiological responses (e.g., RPE, HR, pace, power output).

Main Results:

• HIIT_run significantly increased VO_2max, but no significant changes in 10 km running performance were observed.
• HIIT_bike did not significantly alter VO_2max but led to significant improvements in 10 km running time trial velocity.
• HIIT_bike also enhanced cycling-specific power output and delayed onset muscle soreness, while HIIT_run only increased perceived exertion.

Conclusions:

• High-intensity interval training via cycling can improve 10 km running performance in recreational female runners, potentially independent of changes in maximal aerobic capacity.
• Cycling-based HIIT may offer a viable alternative to running-based HIIT for enhancing running performance while potentially reducing the risk of overuse running injuries.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying performance improvements from cycling HIIT in runners.