INTRODUCTION: Training volumes of elite swimmers consists of 40-70 km pr. week depending on the time season and competitive level. Given this volume the average training intensity typically becomes relatively low, compared to the intensity during competition. The training is carried out over a large span of intensities and taxes anaerobic and aerobic energy system. Hence it is reasonable to conduct both anaerobic and aerobic test´s in order to evaluate training effects. METHODS: A group of male (N=20;19±3 yrs mean±SD) and female (N=11, 18±3 yrs) elite swimmers were randomly assigned to an intensity training group (IG; N=16) or a control group (CG; N=15). For 12 weeks, CG continued their normal training of 25-50 km pr week including supra maximal bouts 1-2 times pr. week. IG reduced training volume by 50% and performed at least 4 sets of supra maximal interval training pr week. Before and after a 5x200m progressive step test on a 5 min cycle was performed. On the first 4 steps the speed was controlled and was the same on both occasions. The last level was as fast as possible with an even split. In the pause between repetitions a finger tip sample for analysis of lactate was obtained. After a break lasting at least 3 hrs, a 100 m time trial test was performed with split times for each 5m, obtained by 2 trained observers. RESULTS: A higher max swimming speed was observed (1.67±0.13 m/s vs 1.74±0.17m/s,P<0.05) for IG when comparing pre to post. No differences between groups for any of the split times on the 100m time trail was observed. Furthermore, higher lactate values was observed in CG (5.4±1.6 mmol/l vs 6.4±2.1 mmol/l,P<0.05) after the 4th repetition. No difference in lactate values between groups was noted. DISCUSSION: The major finding of this study is that a 12 weeks training intervention with concomitant doubling of the amount of high intensity training and 50% reduction of the training volume, seems to increase the ability to reach high maximal speed over a sprint distance (100m) without compromising the endurance capacity as judged by the step test. As lactate levels were not changed as a result of training the effect might be related an increase of strength, efficiency or a combination of the two. Surprisingly an increase in the lactate level after the 4th repetition was observed for CG after 12 week of endurance training. An increase in the transport capacity for lactate out of the working muscles could play a role for this observation.
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