HMS, BM EQ-Bank 115

Overview Statement:

• High-intensity interval training requires precise coordination between nervous and respiratory systems.
• Their relationships control oxygen delivery, monitor metabolic demands, and adapt breathing patterns throughout work-recovery cycles.

Component Relationship 1 – Neural Control of Breathing:

• The motor cortex activates muscles while the medulla oblongata simultaneously controls breathing rate.
• During work intervals, breathing rate increases significantly in response to neural signals.
• CO₂ sensors directly influence the respiratory centre to increase the amount of air breathed per breath.
• This relationship enables rapid oxygen uptake matching muscle demands.
• The connection demonstrates how nerve centres coordinate movement with breathing.

Component Relationship 2 – Feedback Systems:

• Special sensors in the body detect rising CO₂ and falling O₂ levels during intense work.
• These sensors trigger nerve signals that adjust breathing depth and rate.
• The nervous system responds by increasing both respiratory rate and the amount of air per breath.
• This interaction reveals how body signals control breathing changes.
• Recovery breathing remains elevated due to continued neural stimulation.

Component Relationship 3 – Training Adaptations:

• Repeated HIIT sessions lead to improved neural-respiratory coordination.
• Neural pathways become more efficient at anticipating breathing needs.
• This adaptation results in faster respiratory responses between intervals.
• Trained athletes develop better synchronisation of breathing with work phases.

Implications:

• The interdependence shows that HIIT effectiveness relies on neural-respiratory integration.
• This means training improves both systems together, not separately.
• Therefore, optimal HIIT performance requires developing neural control alongside respiratory capacity.