Effect of high intensity interval training on cardiopulmonary function in Taekwon-do ITF athletes

Abstract

Introduction. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of high intensity interval training on cardiorpulmonary function of Taekwondo ITF athletes. Material and methods. The study recruited 20 male ITF-style taekwondo practitioners. The sample was randomly divided into experimental (n =10) and control (n = 10) group. Aerobic capacity and ventilatory variables were measured pre- and post-training by an incremental treadmill exercise test continued until volitional exhaustion. The experimental group (E) completed an 8- week interval training program targeting glycolytic capacity. Their current training regime of traditional TKD methods and techniques (three sessions per week) was supplemented with an additional two interval training sessions per week (three regular taekwondo trainings and two interval training per week). Each session involved 30 s of maximal kicking drills (round middle kick) separated by 90 s of rest. The control group (C) continued their current training regime involving traditional TKD methods and techniques in 90 min daily sessions five times per week for the same 8-week period in group E. Results. Post-training VO2max increased significantly only in group E : 50.13 ± 3.81 ml·kg-1 ·min-1 vs. 53.16 ± 2. ml·kg-1 ·min-1 (p ≤ 0.05). There was no significant differences between and in groups in blood pH, maximal heart rate and in ventilatory variables during incremental treadmill test before and after training intervention. Conclusions. The administration of 8-weeks of glycolytic-based interval training enhanced maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) in our sample of ITF taekwondo practitioners. ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR