Acute Performance Decrement Following Training Based on the Phases of the 200-Meter Races in Paralympic Canoe Sprint Kayak Athletes

Abstract

Background: Tailored training methods for 200-m races may improve in Paralympic canoe sprint (PCS) kayaking. Understanding methods impact on fatigue can help coaches and athletes in guiding training periodization.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the acute performance decrement (APD) in PCS athletes after phase-specific training sessions for the 200-m kayak race, and compare the training loads of three different methods and their correlation with APD.

Research Design: Randomized, within-subject repeated-measures (crossover) study.

Study sample: Twenty-four athletes who participated in 200-m kayak races at international and national events were recruited.

Data collection: The athletes performed a maximum 200-m ergometer test at baseline and 1 min after three training methods: acceleration phase training (ACC), phase two training (P2), and race simulation training (RACE). The primary outcome was the APD, measured by the percentage decrease in performance outcomes of the 200-m ergometer test immediately after the training methods.

Results: Significant APD was observed in time, power, and velocity during training sessions. The ACC phase showed the lowest decrement, differing significantly from P2 and RACE across the same outcomes. While ACC, P2, and RACE also showed distinct differences in power and velocity, APD did not significantly correlate with performance outcomes or training loads. Notably, APD magnitudes varied by training method, with longer set distances showing greater decrements.

Conclusion: Reducing set distances might help maintain training intensity without significant performance decrements. Training loads did not significantly correlate with APD for any method, emphasizing the importance of monitoring training load to promote health, enhance performance, and minimize injury risks.