Relación de la variabilidad de la frecuencia cardiaca y el yo-yo test en deportistas universitarios

Introduction: Heart rate variability (HRV) reflects autonomic modulation and is associated with physical fitness, particularly in aerobic endurance disciplines. However, the relationship between HRV and performance in aerobic capacity tests, such as the Yo-Yo test, has not been fully explored in university athletes. Objective: To analyze the relationship between resting HRV parameters and performance in the Yo-Yo test among university athletes. Methodologic: A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted with 32 male athletes (aged 18–26 years). HRV was assessed in supine and standing positions using time-domain and frequency-domain analyses (SDNN, RMSSD, pNN50%, HF, LF, VLF, and the LF/HF ratio). Subsequently, the maximum velocity reached in the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 2 (YIRT2) was recorded. Pearson’s correlation test (p < .05) was used to examine the relationships. Results: A moderate positive correlation was observed between the final velocity in the Yo-Yo test and the resting parameters SDNN (r = 0.42; p = .02), HF (r = 0.4; p = .03), and pNN50%. Additionally, a negative correlation was found between the postural change-induced variation in pNN50% and performance (r = -0.46; p = .01). Conclusions: HRV parameters associated with parasympathetic activity show a significant relationship with performance in the Yo-Yo test among university athletes. These findings suggest that HRV could be a useful tool for predicting aerobic capacity and optimizing training planning.