Table 1. Response to Varied Exercise Conditions
training regimen, which will be classified as either (1) interval or (2) continuous (steady).
Endurance performance will be measured with a high degree of accuracy through the use of a bicycle ergometer wherein a specific level of physical output will be controlled through ergometric settings with the time duration that subjects can continue performing acting as the measure of the dependent variable. The dependent variable, endurance performance, will be defined as the actual time subjects are able to perform at a specified VO2 level subsequent to the completion of a prescribed training regimen.
Actual endurance performance may be expected to vary in relation to the exercise effort required (i.e., running, cycling, rowing, and so forth). The scope of the proposed test of the relative efficacy of interval training and continuous training as a facilitator of endurance performance, however, will be restricted to the investigation of such effects in relation to endurance performance measured on a bicycle ergometer.
A methodological limitation of the proposed study will be that the activities of participating subjects will not be able to be controlled completely, as the subjects will not be able to be isolated for the duration of the proposed investigation. Prescribed exercise regimens will be monitored and records will be maintained. The importance to the integrity of the investigation of adherence to prescribed regimens will be emphasized on a continuing basis to participating subjects. Nevertheless, it will remain possible for participating subjects to engaged in non prescribed training when not actually involved in prescribed training activities.
Three hypotheses will be tested. These hypotheses are as follows:
1. Subjects following an interval training regimen will maintain sustained performance at specified VO2 level for longer period than will subjects follow...