The Differential Effects of Circuit Training and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Methods on VO₂Max Improvement in Pencak Silat Athletes at SMA Negeri 2 Taruna Pamong Praja, East Java

Abstract

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of Circuit Training and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) methods in improving cardiorespiratory endurance capacity (VO2Max) among pencak silat athletes. The research employed a quasi-experimental approach using a two-group pretest-posttest design. The sample consisted of 30 athletes divided into two experimental groups: the first group received Circuit Training, while the second group underwent HIIT. Data were collected through VO2Max tests conducted before and after the intervention. Data analysis included normality and homogeneity tests, paired sample t-tests, and N-Gain analysis. The results showed that both training methods significantly improved VO₂Max (p < 0.05). However, HIIT produced a higher average increase than Circuit Training, as evidenced by the higher posttest means and N-Gain scores. The calculated t-value of 9.645 exceeded the t-table value (2.045), with a p-value of 0.00, indicating a statistically significant effect. Therefore, it can be concluded that both Circuit Training and HIIT are effective in increasing VO2Max, but HIIT is superior in terms of efficiency and outcome. The results of this study are expected to serve as a reference for coaches in designing more optimal training programs to support the performance of pencak silat athletes at the school and regional levels.