Does Biological Sex Influence the Cardiac Output Response to Sprint Interval Exercise Training in Humans?

Overview

Sprint interval exercise training refers to brief repeated bouts of vigorous effort that are separated by short periods of recovery. Cardiac output refers to the amount of blood that is pumped out of the heart each minute. Research has shown that sprint interval exercise training can increase peak cardiac output - or the highest cardiac output that is achieved during strenuous exercise - but this response may be influenced by biological sex. The primary goal of this study is to determine whether the peak cardiac output response to 12 weeks of sprint interval exercise training differs between males and females. Cardiac output will be estimated using a non-invasive technique that involves breathing in a mixture of standardized gases. This research will help to determine whether biological sex influences the response of the heart to brief vigorous cycle exercise training.

The primary purpose of this study is to determine whether biological sex influences the peak cardiac output response to 12 weeks of sprint interval exercise training. Peak cardiac output will be determined non-invasively using an inert gas rebreathing technique. Each session of sprint interval exercise training will involve a 10-minute period of cycling on a stationary ergometer. The protocol will consist of a two-minute warm-up; three, 20-second 'all out' efforts that are separated by two minutes of recovery; and a three-minute cool down. Three sessions of training will be performed each week for a total of 12 weeks. Groups of male and female participants will be recruited and tested using best practice guidelines for sex-based comparisons of exercise responses. The study will advance knowledge regarding the potential for biological sex to influence the cardiovascular response to brief vigorous cycle exercise training.