Wang, T. Y., Lee, M. M., & Chan, K. H. (2011). Effects of high-intensity interval training on critical velocity and anaerobic work capacity in canoeing. Presentation 1033 at the 2010 Annual Meeting of the American College of Sports Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; June 2-5.

This study compared the effects of high-intensity training and moderate-intensity continuous training (matched for training time) on a canoeing ergometer on VO2peak, critical velocity, and anaerobic work capacity. Elite male canoeists (N = 14) were assessed pre- and post training for VO2peak using a continuous incremental test as well as for performance on 200, 500, and 1000 m on a canoeing ergometer. Ss were matched on critical velocity and randomly placed into high-intensity training (N = 7; 7 bouts, two minute interval at 90% VO2peak, one minute rest between intervals) or moderate-intensity continuous training (N = 7; continuous 20-minute work 65% VO2peak) groups. Training on the ergometer occurred three days per week over four weeks.

Both groups significantly increased in VO2peak and critical velocity. However, there was no difference between groups after training. There was no significant change in anaerobic work capacity after training in either group.

Implication. Contrary to what is commonly shown in cycling studies, high-intensity interval training and moderate-intensity continuous training have similar effects on canoeing ergometer performance and common measures of aerobic and anaerobic capacities.

Return to Table of Contents for this issue.