Toward the implementation of High Intensity Interval Training during FES-Cycling: an exploratory study

Functional Electrical Stimulation applied to cycling (FES-Cycling) is an example of "Sport-Therapy" for people with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) since it can provide physical benefits, in particular to leg muscles, and also psychological ones. In the last years, initiatives like Cybathlon have increased the interest in this type of disciplines. There are different approaches to improve performances and increase pedalling autonomy but the study of the training protocol is one of the most important. In recent years, High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) protocol has arisen as an efficient exercise modality for able-subjects but has shown promising results also when applied to SCI individuals during FES-cycling. In this exploratory study, one subject with complete SCI tested a HIIT protocol using a FES-Cycling system based on a recumbent trike. Preliminary results are analysed to derive considerations in order to implement future efficient training programmes. This work confirms HIIT as a promising technique to improve performances.