Effect of sprint interval training (SIT) on cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular variables associated with performance: a systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v83.119336Keywords:
sprint interval training, neuromuscular performances, sports performanceAbstract
Introduction: Sprint interval training (SIT) has become one of the most widely studied time-efficient training strategies for improving athletic performance. Nevertheless, evidence regarding its effects on specific cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular variables remains fragmented.
Objective: To examine the effects of SIT on cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular variables associated with sports performance through a systematic review of the recent literature.
Methodology: Twenty-one studies involving different athletic populations and SIT protocols were included. Outcomes comprised relative and absolute VO₂max, maximal aerobic speed (MAS), maximal and resting heart rate, countermovement jump (CMJ), sprint performance, repeated sprint ability (RSA), and peak power output (PPO).
Results: SIT improved several physiological and performance-related outcomes, particularly in recreational or moderately trained individuals. The most consistent adaptations were observed for VO₂max and PPO, while MAS also improved, especially when SIT was combined with sport-specific training. Evidence for RSA was limited. The magnitude of the adaptations appeared to depend on participant characteristics, intervention duration, training volume, and protocol specificity.
Conclusions: SIT is an effective and time-efficient strategy for improving key physiological variables associated with sports performance. However, its effects are not consistent across all outcomes or populations. Future studies should standardize SIT protocols, isolate the effects of SIT from concurrent training components, and evaluate its application in specific sports.
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