Hyperoxia Improves Repeated-Sprint Ability and the Associated Training Load in Athletes

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Human Performance

Background:

• Repeated-sprint ability (RSA) is crucial for team and racquet sports.
• Understanding factors that enhance RSA is vital for athlete training.
• Hyperoxic gas breathing (HYP) is a potential ergogenic aid.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of HYP on RSA and training load (TL).
• To examine physiological responses during repeated sprints under normoxic and hyperoxic conditions.

Main Methods:

• Thirteen athletes performed 6-s all-out sprints with 24-s recovery until exhaustion.
• Tests were conducted under normoxic (NOR) and hyperoxic (HYP: 40% O2) conditions in a randomized crossover design.
• Measurements included mechanical indices, SpO2, muscle oxygenation (NIRS), and EMG.

Main Results:

• HYP significantly increased SpO2, number of sprints, total mechanical work, and session TL compared to NOR.
• Hyperoxia also enhanced muscle oxygenation changes and muscle recruitment.
• Neuromuscular efficiency was improved under HYP conditions.

Conclusions:

• Breathing 40% oxygen improves total work and training load during RSA sessions in trained athletes.
• This ergogenic effect of HYP is likely mediated by metabolic and neuromuscular alterations.
• HYP may be a valuable tool for enhancing training adaptations in athletes.