The Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training on Specific Endurance for Épée Fencing Athletes

Abstract

The aim of the research was to identify the effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on the specific endurance of foil fencing players. An experimental method was implemented using a two-group pretest-posttest design (control and experimental groups). The research population consisted of foil fencing players from the Physical Education and Sports Sciences College at the University of Babylon, totaling 12 players. Ten players were selected for the main experiment, while two were excluded for the exploratory trial. The sample was randomly divided into two equal groups, with five players in each group: one control and one experimental.

The researchers utilized both Arabic and foreign sources, personal interviews, and observations. The key findings indicated that high-intensity interval training had a positive impact on improving the specific endurance of foil fencing players in the experimental group. Additionally, the HIIT exercises showed a clear advantage over conventional training methods used by the control group. One of the main recommendations is the necessity of employing high-intensity interval training to develop the physical and motor abilities specific to the sport of fencing.