Energy metabolism characteristics of sprinters in speed endurance training with different intermittent rest periods

This Purpose: This study investigates the energy metabolism characteristics of sprinters during speed endurance training with different rest intervals (1-min vs. 2-min). Twelve male sprinters (mean age: 19.85 ± 1.93 years, height: 182.75 ± 5.21 cm, weight: 66.08 ± 2.60 kg, training duration: 5.50 ± 1.12 years, personal best 200 m time: 22.88 ± 0.53 s) participated in the study. They underwent speed endurance training with 1-min and 2-min rest intervals. Blood lactate levels, oxygen consumption, and energy metabolism characteristics were recorded. Energy metabolism was assessed using a rapid calculation method based on "V"O₂, blood lactate (BLA), and excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). Phosphagen energy supply during speed endurance training with 1-min rest intervals was 109.03 ± 12.34 kJ, while with 2-min rest intervals it was 82.33 ± 18.04 kJ. Glycolytic energy supply for the two modes was 189.79 ± 43.48 kJ and 167.45 ± 47.14 kJ, respectively. Aerobic metabolism energy supply was measured at 162.02 ± 10.71 kJ and 162.82 ± 13.33 kJ for the 1-min and 2-min rest intervals, respectively. Shorter rest intervals induce quicker physiological responses during interval training at a fixed intensity. Specifically, the 1-min rest interval is more effective in enhancing the phosphagen system. Male sprinters are advised to incorporate 1-min rest interval speed endurance training into their routines to improve cardiovascular function and anaerobic metabolism capacity, thereby enhancing overall speed endurance levels.