Short or Long High Intensity Training

The cyclists were allowed to perform ad libitum low intensity (LIT) in addition to high intensity (HIT) sessions that were determined to each group. The cyclists completed 12 supervised HIT sessions during the intervention period, three HIT sessions per week with at least 48 hours between each HIT-session. All HIT sessions were performed as supervised group training sessions. Each HIT session started with an individual 30 minutes' warm up at low intensity (55-70% HRmax) interspersed by freely chosen progressive sprints. For all groups the power output during the recovery periods was 50 % of the power output used during work intervals. The cyclists in all groups were instructed to perform each interval session at their maximal sustainable intensity. Each session ended with 15-20 minutes' cool down (55-70% HRmax). All HIT sessions were supervised and performed in groups on the University of Agder's (UiA) premises at Spicheren fitness center in Kristiansand.