Hypoxic repeated sprint training and its effects on athletic performance

PParticipants in the experimental group performed repeated sprint training under normobaric hypoxic conditions using a hypoxia generator device (Hypoxico Everest Summit II, USA). The hypoxic environment simulated an altitude of approximately 2550 meters above sea level. Training sessions were conducted in a supervised laboratory setting at sea level in Ordu, Türkiye, twice weekly for four weeks. Each session included repeated 10-second maximal cycling sprints, and exercise intensity was monitored using heart rate, oxygen saturation (SpO2), and Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scores. Attendance at all training sessions was recorded to monitor adherence to the intervention. The intervention lasted four weeks and consisted of two supervised training sessions per week (total of eight sessions). Each session was conducted at the same time of day in a controlled laboratory environment. Each training session included: 10-minute warm-up at 120 W on a cycle ergometer 3 sets of five 10-second maximal cycling sprints 5-minute active recovery at 120 W between sets 10-minute cool-down at 120 W Participants performed the repeated sprint protocol on a cycle ergometer while breathing the hypoxic gas mixture through a tightly fitted face mask connected to the hypoxia generator. Oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate were continuously monitored during the training sessions. Participants in the control group continued their routine training programs and did not participate in the hypoxic repeated sprint training intervention.