Adaptive responses of cardiorespiratory system and hormonal parameters to individualized high-intensity interval training using anaerobic power reserve in well-trained rowers

The current study investigated the efficacy of individualizing exercise intensity according to anaerobic power reserve (APR) on hormonal, physiological, and performance adaptations in athletes with different profiles. Sixteen highly-trained male rowers (age = 22 ± 3 years, height = 183 ± 6 cm, weight = 83 ± 7 kg, body fat = 11 ± 2%, experience = 12 ± 5 years) were randomized to a high-intensity interval training consisting of 2 × (6, 6, 8, 8, 10, 10 repetitions from 1st to 6th week, respectively) × 60 s intervals using a rowing ergometer at ∆%30 APR (APR(∆%30)) or the same sets and repetitions at 130% maximal aerobic power (MAP(130%)). In both groups, relief intervals were set at 1:1 with 3 min of rest between sets. On four occasions separated by 24 h recovery, participants attended the laboratory to assess 2000-m rowing ergometer performance, maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O(2)max) and related physiological adaptations, and hormonal parameters. Significant increases were observed in 2000-m performance, V̇O(2)max, ventilation at V̇O(2)max, first and second ventilatory threshold, MAP and maximal sprinting power (MSP), total testosterone, and testosterone to cortisol ratio in response to 6 weeks of APR(∆%30) and MAP(130%) protocols. The coefficient of variation (inter-subject variability) in the adaptive response of cardiorespiratory parameters to HIIT performed using the APR(∆%30) protocol was lower than those of the MAP(130%) group. However, this is not the case for hormonal changes. Prescribing HIIT based on an athlete’s APR may help to create a more consistent level of the mechanical and physiological stimulus relative to the athlete’s capacity, potentially leading to more similar adaptations across athletes with varying profiles. Mechanisms influencing total testosterone are multifactorial and are not affected by this approach.