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

## TL;DR

A 6-week sprint interval training program may help elite skateboarders resist mental fatigue, based on brain and heart activity measurements.

## Contribution

This study is among the first to explore how sprint interval training affects mental fatigue resistance in elite skateboarders using EEG, HRV, and VAS measures.

## Key findings

- EEG indices showed increased central nervous system activation and more stable neural profiles after the training.
- HRV indices indicated improved autonomic regulation and sympathovagal balance following the SIT program.
- Subjective reports showed increased motivation and reduced physical fatigue over the training period.

## Abstract

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.