Abstract:
Background: The peaking period for endurance competition is characterized for a relative increase of the intensity of training, after a
longer period of training relatively dominated by lower intensity and higher volume
Objectives: The present study was designed to compare physiological and 10 km performance effects of high intensity training (HIT)
versus race pace interval training (RP) during peaking for competition in well-trained runners.
Patients and Methods: 13 athletes took part in the study, they were divided into two groups: HIT and RP. HIT performed short intervals
at ~105% of the maximal aerobic velocity (MAV), while RP trained longer intervals at a speed of ~90% of the MAV (a speed approximating
10 km race pace). After 12 weeks of baseline training, the athletes trained for 6 weeks under one of the two peaking regimes. Subjects
performed 10 km prior to and after the intervention period. The total load of training was matched between groups during the treatment
phase. Subjects completed a graded treadmill running test until volitional exhaustion prior to each 10 km race. MAV was determined as
the minimal velocity eliciting maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max).
Results: Both gr...