Abstract
BACKGROUND: Wheelchair basketball (WB) is a physically demanding sport requiring the development of various physiological and performance-related parameters. High-intensity interval training methods, such as Tabata, are increasingly used to enhance athletic performance. However, their specific effects on WB players remain underexplored. METHODS: This study aimed to investigate the physiological effects of an 8-week Tabata training program on WB players. Fifteen male WB athletes over the age of 18 were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 8) or a control group (n = 7). The experimental group performed Tabata training twice weekly following their regular WB sessions. Each session consisted of 1 set of 8 repetitions, including 20 seconds of activity and 10 seconds of rest. The control group continued their standard training regimen. Pre- and posttest evaluations included physiological parameters such as respiratory function (FEV1, forced vital capacity [FVC], maximum voluntary ventilation), heart rate (resting and maximal), blood lactate, oximetry, body composition, and sprint performance. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were observed between the groups in maximal heart rate, FEV1 %, FEV1/VC, FEV1/VC %, MVV %, maximal blood lactate, body weight, and 20 m sprint performance (P < .05). No significant differences were found in resting heart rate, resting and maximal oximetry, FVC, FVC %, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEV1/FVC %, RAST (minimum, maximum, average power), or anaerobic power (P > .05). CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that Tabata training positively affects maximal heart rate, respiratory function, lactate response, body weight, and sprint performance in WB players. The program appears to enhance lactate tolerance and maximal ventilatory capacity, potentially improving oxygen intake during high-intensity efforts. These results suggest that Tabata training can be a valuable addition to the training routines of WB athletes.