title: Pacing, the missing piece of the puzzle to high-intensity interval training.
abstract: This study examined physiological and perceptual responses to matched work high-intensity interval training using all-out and 2 even-paced methodologies. 15 trained male cyclists performed 3 interval sessions of three 3-min efforts with 3 min of active recovery between efforts. The initial interval session was completed using all-out pacing, with the following 2 sessions being completed with computer- and athlete-controlled pacing in a randomised and semi-counterbalanced manner. Computer- and athlete-controlled intervals were completed at the mean power from the corresponding interval during the all-out trial. Oxygen consumption and ratings of perceived exertion were recorded during each effort. 20 min following each session, participants completed a 4-km time trial and provided sessional rating of perceived exertion. Oxygen consumption was greater during all-out (54.1±6.6 ml.kg(-1).min(-1); p<0.01) and athlete-controlled (53.0±5.8 ml.kg(-1).min(-1); p<0.01) compared with computer-controlled (51.5±5.7 ml.kg(-1).min(-1)). Total time ≥85% maximal oxygen consumption was greater during all-out compared to both even-paced efforts. Sessional ratings of perceived exertion were greater after all-out compared to both even-paced sessions. Mean 4-km power output was lower after all-out compared with both even paced intervals. Distribution of pace throughout high-intensity interval training can influence perceptual and metabolic stress along with subsequent performance and should be considered during the prescription of such training.
authors.affiliation: School of Psychology and Exercise Science, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia.
authors.forename: E K
authors.initials: EK
authors.lastname: Zadow
authors.affiliation: School of Psychology and Exercise Science, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia.
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Gordon
authors.affiliation: School of Exercise, Biomedical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia.
authors.forename: C R
authors.initials: CR
authors.lastname: Abbiss
authors.affiliation: School of Psychology and Exercise Science, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia.
authors.forename: J J
authors.initials: JJ
authors.lastname: Peiffer
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001642:Bicycling / Q000502:physiology*; D006339:Heart Rate; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D063806:Myalgia / Q000503:physiopathology; D010101:Oxygen Consumption; D010465:Perception; D010806:Physical Education and Training / Q000379:methods*; D010807:Physical Endurance / Q000502:physiology*; D005082:Physical Exertion / Q000502:physiology