Effects of Functional Training on Physical Fitness of Track and Field Runners

Abstract

Introduction: The use of functional strength training in running training allows athletes to produce a continuous development behavior improving their various functional and competitive abilities. Objective: Study the effect of functional training on the physical quality of runners in track and field. Methods: Six athletes were selected whose changes in parameters of the technical index of the hurdle stage before and after training were analyzed to explore the influence of functional training on the specific technique of the hurdle stage. Results: In the fitness test items of the 6 athletes, the performances of 30 meters, 100 meters, triple standing jump, and backward ball throw were increased by 0.02 seconds, 0.09 seconds, 0.09 meters, and 0.20 meters, respectively, compared to the average before training. An average improvement of 2.50 points was shown in functional movement screening scores. Conclusion: Functional training can improve the physical quality of athletes, positively helping athletes’ obstacle course running performance. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.