Sprint Cycling Interval Training Improves Aerobic and Anaerobic Performance—Comparison with Aerobic Interval Training in Physically Active Men

The aim of the study was to determine the effects of sprint interval training (SIT) on anaerobic and aerobic performance in young physically active men, as assessed by maximal power (Pmax), maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), and the second ventilatory threshold (VT2). The data obtained were presented against the background of the effects of aerobic interval training. Participants (n = 45) aged 19–27 years were recruited into three groups of 15 participants each. The first group performed SIT, the second performed aerobic interval training (AIT), and the third group was without any intervention (control—CON). In each study group, participants performed somatic measurements twice (before and after the exercise intervention), the Wingate test (assessing peak anaerobic power (PP)), and a graded exercise test assessing aerobic performance. The training intervention in the SIT and AIT groups lasted 6 weeks, with three training sessions per week. The duration of a single session in AIT was constant throughout the intervention and lasted 60 min, while in SIT it lasted 17 min (first session), and the longest training session lasted 30 min. Training in the SIT group resulted in a significant increase in absolute anaerobic peak power (p < 0.001, ES = 0.36), while no significant change in PP was observed after AIT (p = 0.13, ES = 0.24). Both training protocols (SIT and AIT) significantly improved VO2max (p = 0.03, ES = 0.39 and p = 0.02, ES = 0.55, respectively) and absolute Pmax (p < 0.001, ES = 0.68 and p = 0.02, ES = 0.36). Only in the AIT group were statistically significant changes related to VT2 observed: after training, oxygen uptake at VT2 increased significantly (p = 0.04, ES = 0.64). The SIT protocol improved both aerobic (VO2max) and anaerobic (PP) performance, but did not affect the VT2 level. The data indicate that SIT can be used for training in sports disciplines requiring aerobic and anaerobic performance.