Periodized training archive better autonomic modulation and aerobic performance than non periodized training.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present research was to analyze autonomic response and aerobic performance after performing three different workloads training distributions.

METHODS: Thirty athletes (38.7±9.8 years. 174.7±6.5 cm. 72.0±9.8 kg) were randomly divided in 3 groups of 10 participants each one to perform 3 different 4-week training programs: PRO group: increasing the aerobic training intensity during the 4-weeks; UNI group: performing a uniform aerobic intensity every week; and FRE group performing a free training. Total Power, the very low frequency band, the low frequency (LF) band, the high frequency (HF) band, the LF and HF normalized, basal heart rate, the LF/HF ratio and maximal aerobic velocity were measured before and after the 4-weeks of training.

RESULTS: A significantly increase (p<0.05) in HF and HF normalized in the PRO group was measured. The basal HR of FRE group increased significantly after the 4-week training program.

CONCLUSIONS: After 4-week of training, PRO training workload distribution achieved higher autonomic adaptation than UNI and FRE training workload distribution. This information could help the coaches to develop better training programs and organize correctly the different mesocycles of training during the season to obtain a correct autonomic response of their athletes.