The Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training on Both Physical and Cognitive Performance and Recovery.

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Cognitive Neuroscience

Background:

• High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a popular training method.
• Understanding its impact on both physical and cognitive functions is crucial for athletes.
• Elite team handball players require optimal performance in both domains.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of HIIT on cognitive and physical performance.
• To analyze recovery patterns of these functions post-HIIT.
• To compare recovery trajectories between cognitive and physical measures.

Main Methods:

• Ten elite handball players underwent HIIT (3 sets of 200-m shuttle runs).
• Cognitive tests included SCAT 5 and Stroop test.
• Physical tests included isometric midthigh pull (IMTP) and countermovement jumps (CMJ).
• Assessments were conducted at baseline, immediately post, 24-hour, and 48-hour post-exercise.

Main Results:

• CMJ peak and mean power significantly decreased post-HIIT.
• IMTP force production and rate of force development remained unchanged.
• Stroop test reaction time and accuracy significantly improved post-HIIT.
• Reactive agility improved significantly by 48 hours post-exercise.

Conclusions:

• HIIT differentially affects cognitive and physical recovery in elite handball players.
• Cognitive functions showed faster recovery or improvement compared to dynamic physical measures.
• These findings highlight the need for tailored recovery strategies based on performance domains.