The main objective was to compare the impact of two different interval training programmes - supramaximal intensity interval training (SMIT) and high intensity interval training (HIIT) – on measures of VO₂max and resting heart rate. A total of 30 trained male soccer players 15-17 years of age from Bishnupur district, Manipur, India, were randomly chosen as subject.They were divided into three groups of 10, group-1 was given supramaximal intensity interval training (SMIT) and group-2 was given high intensity interval training (HIIT) and group-3 act as control group (CG). Group-1 &2 was given training for 12 weeks (3days/week) and all players were tested before and after the training program. Outcome measures were: VO₂max and resting pulse rate to check the two parameters by12 minutes run or walk test and digital blood pressure monitor respectively. The collected data were analyzed by using paired sample t-test to present mean, mean differences, ‘t’-ratio and percentage of change. Further univariate (ANCOVA) was used to determine whether there are any significant differences between the groups on the dependent variable. When interaction was found significant, ‘Scheffe’s test’ was employed. The level of confidence was fixed at 0.05.The results shown that there was a significant improvement inVO₂max and resting pulse ratein both experimental groups the obtained ‘F’ ratio for adjusted post-test scores (344.53> 3.37) on VO₂max and (12.95>3.37) on resting pulse rate table value for df 2 and 26 on resting pulse rate. The study shows it is possible to improve the VO₂max and decrease the resting pulse rate by proper varied interval training added to the normal training load. The observed effects are meaningful to the training practices of elite athletes seeking a competitive edge in team sports when otherwise well matched.

Keywords: interval training,VO₂max,resting pulse rate, supramaximal intensity interval training (SMIT), high intensity interval training (HIIT).