Energy System Contributions in Repeated Sprint Tests: Protocol and Sex Comparison

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Human Performance

Background:

• Repeated sprint ability is crucial for team sports performance.
• Energy system contributions during repeated sprints are not fully understood.
• Sex-related differences in physiological responses to exercise require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate energy system contributions during two distinct repeated sprint protocols.
• To determine sex-related differences in these energy system contributions.
• To analyze physiological and performance variables in relation to sprint protocols and sex.

Main Methods:

• Sixteen men and fourteen women team sport athletes performed two cycling repeated sprint protocols (10 x 6 s and 6 x 10 s).
• Measurements included relative peak power (RPP), relative mean power (RMP), performance decrement (PD), oxygen uptake (VO2), blood lactate (LA), heart rate (HR), and ratings of perceived exertion (RPEs).
• Energy system contributions were mathematically calculated from VO2 and LA during rest, exercise, and recovery.

Main Results:

• Men exhibited higher RPP and RMP than women. RMP was higher in the 10 x 6 s protocol.
• Performance decrement (PD) was higher in the 6 x 10 s protocol.
• Women showed higher ATP-PCr contribution, while men had higher glycolytic contribution. The 10 x 6 s protocol favored ATP-PCr, whereas the 6 x 10 s protocol increased glycolytic and oxidative contributions.

Conclusions:

• Energy system contributions, physiological responses, and performance outcomes vary significantly between sexes and across different repeated sprint protocols.
• These findings highlight the importance of considering sex and specific training protocols when assessing and developing repeated sprint ability in athletes.
• Tailoring training regimens based on individual sex and preferred sprint characteristics can optimize performance in team sports.