Increased oxygen uptake in well-trained runners during uphill high intensity running intervals: A randomized...

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Cardiovascular Training

Background:

• Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) improvement is linked to time spent at high intensities during training.
• Uphill running increases metabolic cost, potentially enhancing training effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of horizontal versus moderate uphill high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on time spent above 90% VO2max.
• To evaluate physiological responses during different incline HIIT protocols.

Main Methods:

• Seventeen well-trained runners completed both horizontal (1% incline) and uphill (8% incline) HIIT protocols.
• Measurements included oxygen uptake (VO2mean, VO2peak), lactate, heart rate (HR), and perceived exertion (RPE).

Main Results:

• Uphill HIIT resulted in significantly greater accumulated time above 90% VO2max compared to horizontal HIIT.
• Higher mean and peak oxygen uptake were observed during uphill HIIT.
• Comparable lactate, HR, and RPE responses were noted between the two conditions.

Conclusions:

• Moderate uphill HIIT is a more effective strategy for maximizing time spent above 90% VO2max.
• Uphill running provides a greater physiological stimulus for improving VO2max at similar perceived exertion levels.