Effects of aquatic high-intensity interval training on VO2max and swimming speed in competitive swimmers: a 16-week intervention study

Purpose. The study aimed to examine the effects of a 16-week aquatic high-intensity interval training (AHIIT) program on cardiovascular fitness and hydrodynamic performance, particularly VO₂ max and swimming speed, in competitive swimming. AHIIT utilized the resistance and buoyancy properties of water, alternating intervals of high-effort swimming with periods of active recovery. Materials and methods. Thirty male swimmers aged 15 to 17 from the Kerala State Sports Council were randomly assigned to an experimental or control group at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar International Aquatic Complex, Pirappancode, Thiruvananthapuram. Cardiovascular fitness (VO₂ max) and swimming speed were assessed at baseline and after 16 weeks. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANCOVA to assess group differences over time. Results. Significant improvements were seen in the experimental group following the AHIIT intervention in both VO₂ max and swimming speed compared to the control group (p < 0.001, F(1,28) = 644.641 for swimming speed; F(1,28) = 893.24 for VO₂max). Conclusions. These results indicate that AHIIT is an effective training method for improving VO₂ max and swimming speed in young competitive swimmers. As a specialized conditioning technique, AHIIT can enhance performance in aquatic sports.