Effects of Sprint Interval Training on Brain Fatigue Resistance in Competitive Skateboarders: Evidence from EEG, HRV, and VAS Measures.

PURPOSE: This preliminary study examined the associations between a 6-week sprint interval training (SIT) program and mental-fatigue (MF) related neurophysiological and subjective indicators in elite skateboarders.

METHODS

In this preliminary study, a single-group, repeated-measures design was employed. Twelve elite skateboarders completed a 6-week sprint interval training (SIT) program. Mental fatigue was assessed at three time points-pre-intervention (Week 0), mid-intervention (Week 3), and post-intervention (Week 6)-using a standardized 60 min Stroop task, with post-task EEG, HRV, and VAS measures collected to characterize neurophysiological and subjective responses.

RESULTS

Across the intervention, EEG indices indicated higher central nervous system activation and more stable post-task neural profiles. HRV indices suggested more flexible autonomic regulation, with favorable changes in low- and high-frequency components, sympathovagal balance, and recovery-related scores, whereas baseline-related indices such as RMSSD and SDNN showed no clear change. VAS ratings showed stable MF, accompanied by increased mental exertion and motivation and reduced physical fatigue over time.

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary findings suggest that a 6-week SIT program may be associated with enhanced resistance to Stroop-related MF in elite skateboarders, potentially through coordinated adaptations in neural activation, autonomic regulation, and psychological factors. Future randomized studies incorporating behavioral performance and sport-specific cognitive tasks are warranted to confirm and extend these observations.