Effect of resistance training regimens on treadmill running and neuromuscular performance in recreational endurance runners

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of heavy resistance, explosive resistance, and muscle endurance training on neuromuscular, endurance, and high-intensity running performance in recreational endurance runners. Twenty-seven male runners were divided into one of three groups: heavy resistance, explosive resistance or muscle endurance training. After 6 weeks of preparatory training, the groups underwent an 8-week resistance training programme as a supplement to endurance training. Before and after the 8-week training period, maximal strength (one-repetition maximum), electromyographic activity of the leg extensors, countermovement jump height, maximal speed in the maximal anaerobic running test, maximal endurance performance, maximal oxygen uptake ([V·]O(₂max)), and running economy were assessed. Maximal strength improved in the heavy (P = 0.034, effect size ES = 0.38) and explosive resistance training groups (P = 0.003, ES = 0.67) with increases in leg muscle activation (heavy: P = 0.032, ES = 0.38; explosive: P = 0.002, ES = 0.77). Only the heavy resistance training group improved maximal running speed in the maximal anaerobic running test (P = 0.012, ES = 0.52) and jump height (P = 0.006, ES = 0.59). Maximal endurance running performance was improved in all groups (heavy: P = 0.005, ES = 0.56; explosive: P = 0.034, ES = 0.39; muscle endurance: P = 0.001, ES = 0.94), with small though not statistically significant improvements in [V·]O(₂max) (heavy: ES = 0.08; explosive: ES = 0.29; muscle endurance: ES = 0.65) and running economy (ES in all groups < 0.08). All three modes of strength training used concurrently with endurance training were effective in improving treadmill running endurance performance. However, both heavy and explosive strength training were beneficial in improving neuromuscular characteristics, and heavy resistance training in particular contributed to improvements in high-intensity running characteristics. Thus, endurance runners should include heavy resistance training in their training programmes to enhance endurance performance, such as improving sprinting ability at the end of a race.

Strength-Training with Whole-Body Vibration in Long-Distance Runners: A Randomized Trial

“…Interestingly, it has been shown that the enhanced endurance performance after ST was accompanied by a greater contribution of the anaerobic metabolism system. For instance, Mikkola et al [18] recently submitted long-distance runners to a ST program and observed a significant increase (3%) in both endurance performance and maximal anaerobic running test performance. These results suggest that the changes in anaerobic metabolism after ST are crucial for improvements in endurance performance.…”

“…Over the past three decades, a wide number of studies have reported beneficial effects of traditional strength training (ST) on these endurance parameters [12,13,18,26,27]. For instance, Støren et al [26] reported significant increases in maximum dynamic strength (~33%) and the T lim (~21%) after 8 weeks of ST performed by long-distance runners.…”

“…It has been pointed out that an improvement in maximum strength, and consequently a lower relative force generated at the same absolute running intensity, may increase oxygen availability to the active muscles and increase the running performance [26]. In addition, it is known that ST increases anaerobic work capacity [4] and dynamic explosive force production [18] in long-distance athletes.…”

“…Together, these adaptations may contribute to higher ATP availability [1] and superior storage and utilization of the elastic energy of the lower limbs [18] during high-intensity aerobic exercise.…”

“…It has been proposed that exogenous stimulation of skeletal muscle with vibration could contribute to an increase in muscle mass [20] and motor unit recruitment [22], which may result in more pronounced muscular adaptation. Because the gains in muscle strength can increase performance in endurance sports [18], ST WBV could be a beneficial alternative training mode for long-distance athletes.…”