Effects of HIIT on Physical Condition and Sports Performance in 800 and 1500 m Middle Distance Runners of Para Athletics: A Case Study

Abstract

High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a training method commonly used in middle-distance runners due to adaptations on oxidative and glycolytic metabolism, the cardiovascular system and neuromuscular fibers, which leads to an increase in athletic performance. Objective: To determine the effects of HIIT on fitness and athletic performance in Para Athletics middle distance runners of 800 and 1500 m. Materials and methods: A non-controlled quasi-experimental study based on a case study was selected, selecting an intentional non-probabilistic sample of four male athletes (23.25±7.27 years; 175.25±3.35 cm; 62.10±1.84 kg) of 800 and 1500 m of class T13, T38 and T46-T47. Participants performed 3 weekly sessions for 12 weeks of HIIT training; training was guided with maximal aerobic speed (MAV) and heart rate (HR) response and subjective perception of effort (RPE) were monitored. Data analysis was performed with SPSS 24.0 software, using descriptive statistics, the Student's t-test for paired samples, and the Wilcoxon test for maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max); the percentage differences between the pretest and posttest are also presented. Results: Significant changes (p≤0.05) were observed in the 200 and 400 m split times during the 1000 m test, in the Sit and Reach test and in muscle power. Conclusion: HIIT was shown to be effective in improving performance in 200 and 400 m, and positive numerical changes were observed in the variables of physical fitness and in the 20 m sprint.