High-intensity Interval Training Shock Microcycle Improves Running Performance but not Economy in Female Soccer Players

Description

<p>This study aimed to evaluate the effect of high-intensity interval training shock microcycles (HIIT _SM) on endurance, running economy and change of direction economy in female soccer players. Nineteen sub-elite female soccer players were randomised to two groups: HIIT _SM(10 HIIT sessions over 13 days) or HIIT _TRAD(4 HIIT sessions over 13 days) interventions. Endurance performance was evaluated through the 30-15 intermittent fitness test (30-15 _IFT); running economy over a 5-min treadmill run; and change of direction economy over two conditions: (1) 5-min 20m shuttle run, and (2) 5-min 10m shuttle run. HIIT _SMsignificantly improved 30-15 _IFTscores compared to baseline (+4.4%, p=0.009; d =0.96) and 30-15 _IFTscores relative to HIIT _TRAD(p=0.002; d =2.01). There was no significant interaction (group×time) for running economy and change of direction economy. Pre-to post-intervention there was a significant main time effect for blood lactate over 20m and 10m shuttle runs (p<0.001 and p=0.037, respectively), with large (d =0.93) an d moderate (d =0.53) changes observed for the HIIT _SMover the two distances, respectively. HIIT _SMmay be more effective than HIIT _TRADto improve 30-15 _IFTover shorter training periods but may not affect running economy and change of direction economy.</p>