EFFECTS OF SHORT DURATION ACTIVE AND PASSIVE RECOVERY ON BLOOD LACTATE ACCUMULATION DURING HIGH INTENSITY WIND SPRINTS IN COLLEGE AGED STUDENTS

Peter J Chomentowski, Christopher A. Perry, Cody J. Yates, Mark Flury, Luis Hernandez

Abstract

Aim: Sprint exercise training has become a popular training method for increasing aerobic and anaerobic performance in individuals of differing athletic abilities. In addition, the implementation of rest recovery intervals between high intensity short duration activities is optimal for maintaining exercise functionality and has been shown to improve overall exercise performance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of short rest recovery intervention on blood lactate accumulation between multiple set sprinting activities. Methods: Thirty-six healthy college student’s age 18-23 yr. participated in the high intensity sprinting exercise sessions. Participants were randomized into an active recovery (AR) or passive recovery intervention (PR). Both groups performed three repeated sets of wind sprints (75 yards each set) separated by a 3-minute rest recovery. Blood lactate, HR, RPE, and sprint time were collected after each set of sprints to assess performance changes. Differences in dependent variables were assessed using two-way repeated measures ANOVA. Results: Blood lactate levels were significantly different between the three sets of sprints for both the active and passive recovery groups. Between group differences were observed with the active recovery group displaying statistically significant lower lactate concentrations following sprint set two and three compared to the passive recovery intervention group. Conclusions: These results suggest that a short active recovery intervention during high intensity sprinting activity could have positive effects of lowering the magnitude of blood lactate accumulation during the activity.

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