Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training Versus Sprint Interval Training on Time-Trial Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background Two forms of interval training commonly discussed in the literature are high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and sprint interval training (SIT). HIIT consists of repeated bouts of exercise that occur at a power output or velocity between the second ventilatory threshold and maximal oxy...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inSports medicine (Auckland) Vol. 50; no. 6; pp. 1145 - 1161
Main Authors Rosenblat, Michael A., Perrotta, Andrew S., Thomas, Scott G.
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Cham Springer International Publishing 01.06.2020
Springer Nature B.V
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Summary:Background Two forms of interval training commonly discussed in the literature are high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and sprint interval training (SIT). HIIT consists of repeated bouts of exercise that occur at a power output or velocity between the second ventilatory threshold and maximal oxygen consumption ( V O 2max ). SIT is performed at a power output or velocity above those associated with V O 2max . Objective The primary objective of this study is to systematically review published randomized and pair-matched trials to determine which mode of interval training, HIIT versus SIT, leads to a greater improvement in TT performance in active and trained individuals. The second objective of this review is to perform a subgroup analysis to determine if there is a distinction between HIIT programs that differ in work-bout duration. Data Sources SPORTDiscus (1800–present) and Medline with Full Text (1946–present) were used to conduct a systematic literature search. Study Selection Studies were selected for the review if they met the following criteria: (1) individuals (males and females) who were considered at least moderately trained (~ 3-h per week of activity) as specified by the authors of the included studies; (2) between the ages of 18 and 45 years; (3) randomized or pair-matched trials that included a HIIT and a SIT group; (4) provided detailed information about the interval training program; (5) were at least 2 weeks in duration; (6) included a TT test that required participants to complete a set distance. Results A total of 6 articles met the inclusion criteria for the subjective and objective analysis. The pooled analysis was based on a random-effects model. There was no difference in the change in TT performance when comparing all HIIT versus SIT (0.9%; 90% CI − 1.2–1.9%, p  = 0.18). However, subgroup analysis based on duration of work interval indicated a 2% greater improvement in TT performance following long-HIIT ( ≥  4 min) when compared to SIT. There was no difference in change in V O 2max / peak oxygen consumption ( V O 2peak ) between groups. There was a moderate effect (ES = 0.70) in favor of HIIT over SIT in maximal aerobic power (MAP) or maximal aerobic velocity (MAV). Conclusion The results of the meta-analysis indicate that long-HIIT may be the optimal form of interval training to augment TT performance. Additional research that directly compares HIIT exercise differing in work-bout duration would strengthen these results and provide further insight into the mechanisms behind the observed benefits of long-HIIT.
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ISSN:0112-1642
1179-2035
DOI:10.1007/s40279-020-01264-1