title: Heart rate variability is related to training load variables in interval running exercises.
abstract: Overload principle of training states that training load (TL) must be sufficient to threaten the homeostasis of cells, tissues, organs and/or body. However, there is no "golden standard" for TL measurement. The aim of the present study was to investigate if post-exercise heart rate variability (HRV) could be used to evaluate TL of interval running exercises with different intensities and durations. Thirteen endurance-trained men (35 ± 5 years) performed MO(250) [moderate intensity, 2 × 6 × 250 m/rec 30 s/5 min at 85% of the maximal velocity of the graded maximal test (V (max))], MO(500) (2 × 3 × 500 m/rec 1 min/5 min at 85% V (max)) and HI(250) (high intensity, 2 × 6 × 250 m/rec 30 s/5 min at 105% V (max)) interval exercises on a treadmill. HRV was analyzed during rest, exercise and immediate 15 min recovery. Fast recovery of LFP (P < 0.001), HFP (P < 0.01) and TP (P < 0.01) occurred during the first two recovery minutes after each exercise. Strong negative correlations (P < 0.01) were found between post-exercise HRV and perceived exertion as well as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption. Post-exercise HRV differentiated interval exercises of equal work, but varying intensity or distance of running bout. The results of the present study suggest that immediate post-exercise HRV may offer objective information on TL of interval exercises with different bout durations and intensities.
authors.affiliation: Tampere Research Center of Sports Medicine, PO Box 30, 33501 Tampere, Finland. piia.kaikkonen@uta.fi
authors.forename: Piia
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Kaikkonen
authors.forename: Esa
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Hynynen
authors.forename: Theresa
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Mann
authors.forename: Heikki
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Rusko
authors.forename: Ari
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Nummela
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D005080:Exercise Test / Q000379:methods; D006339:Heart Rate / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007206:Individuality; D008297:Male; D010806:Physical Education and Training / Q000379:methods*; D010807:Physical Endurance / Q000502:physiology*; D005082:Physical Exertion / Q000502:physiology; D020127:Recovery of Function / Q000502:physiology; D012420:Running / Q000502:physiology*; D013997:Time Factors