Interval Training for Performance: A Scientific and Empirical Practice. Special Recommendations for Middle- and Long-Distance Running. Part I: Aerobic Interval Training

A review tracing the history of scientific and empirical interval training. Interval training is defined as repeated short to long bouts of rather high intensity (at or above maximal lactate steady-state velocity) with recovery periods of light exercise or rest. It was first described by Reindell and Roskamm and popularised in the 1950s by Emil Zatopek.

Coaches have used race velocities from 800 to 5000m to calibrate intervals without physiological markers; the author argues that outside the competition season it seems better to use velocities tied to particular physiological responses, from maximal lactate steady state to absolute maximal velocity, and that the range of velocities in a race must be considered, since even world records are not run at a constant pace.

No participants: narrative review. Abstract available, but it contains no study data.

Narrative, historical and physiological review of aerobic interval training for middle- and long-distance running (Part I of a two-part review). No systematic search is described in the abstract.