Effect of different exercise intervals and work: Recovery ratios on oxygen uptake

Abstract

This study examined the acute effect of varied interval lengths and work: recovery (W:R) ratios on the ability to reach and maintain a high level of aerobic power. Eight female rowers (mean XVO2max of 3.46 [0.64] L · min−1) completed 1 continuous and 7 interval sessions on a Concept II rowing ergometer. Exercise intensity was set at a power output that elicited each individual's VO2max (VO2maxPO) and work was terminated when PO remained below 90% VO2maxPO for 15 seconds. The interval protocols were a 2:1 W: R ratio for work intervals of 30 seconds, 1,2, and 3 minutes, respectively, and a 1:1 W: R ratio for respective work intervals of 1,2, and 3 minutes. Venous blood lactate concentration (BLa) was taken after the first 3 or 4 minutes of exercise and 2 minutes post‐exercise. Total work time (TWT) was greater (p ≤ 0.05) with an interval protocol compared with continuous exercise and decreased both when the exercise interval was lengthened and when the W:R ratio changed from 1:1 to 2:1. The average work‐rat...