Tabata originally derived from studies on cycling if I am not mistaken.
Speed Skaters
A version of HIIT was
based on a 1996 study[17] by
Ritsumeikan University Professor
Izumi Tabata (田畑泉) et al. initially involving
Olympic speedskaters.
Swing is a ballistic exercise.
Ballistic
"The science or study of the motion of projectiles, as bullets, shells, or bombs..."
Thus, in order for a Kettlebell Swing to meet the defintion of Ballistic, one of two thing need to occur...
1
) Launching The Kettlebell
The Kettlebell must be lauched into the air at the apex of the swing.
Research has demostrated that allowing the bell to float at certrain point in the movement ensure a portion of the movement is not developing Power.
2) Jump or Hop
If at the apex of the Swing, an individual hops or jumps, it becomes a Ballistic Movement.
Quazi-Ballistic Kettlebell Swings
Based on the information above, the Traditional Kettlebell Swing is Quazi-Ballistic, not Ballistic.
With that said, Tradiditonal Kettlebell Swings are an effective training exercise that elicits a training effect. However, is isn't Ballistic nor does it evoke Power throughtout the Full Range of The Movement that occurs when a body or object goes airborne.
Banded Kettlebell Swings
For individual interested in Developing Power throughout the Full Range of a Kettlebell Swing; Banded Kettlebells do this...
Dr Craig Marker Banded Swings
...half of S&S swing protocol does not look like Tabata.
Training Concept
The Tababa Training Concept can be applied to Kettlebell Swings and most other types of movements.
20 Seconds of Swings equates to a Sprint, followed by 10 second rest between Swing Sets.
The Tabata Protocol
I am not fan. While it increase VO2 Max it does so at the expense of Power.
Interval Training with lower rest periods between work sets ensure Power is maintained and developed to a greater degree while increasing aerobic capacity, such as with...
SuperMaximal Intensity Training
Longer rest periods between set are taken. This allows individual to perform a ReisistanceTraining SMIT Program with heavier loads; which produces and increase more Power and Strength.
Ryan Toshner
Ryan did an excellent job of breaking this down.