The effect of plyometric training on distance running performance

Abstract

Previous research has reported that plyometric training improves running economy (RE) and ultimately distance-running performance, although the exact mechanism by which this occurs remains unclear. This study examined whether changes in running performance resulting from plyometric training were related to alterations in lower leg musculotendinous stiffness (MTS). Seventeen male runners were pre- and post-tested for lower leg MTS, maximum isometric force, rate of force development, 5-bound distance test (5BT), counter movement jump (CMJ) height, RE, VO(2max), lactate threshold (Th(la)), and 3-km time. Subjects were randomly split into an experimental (E) group which completed 6 weeks of plyometric training in conjunction with their normal running training, and a control (C) group which trained as normal. Following the training period, the E group significantly improved 3-km performance (2.7%) and RE at each of the tested velocities, while no changes in VO(2max) or Th(la) were recorded. CMJ height, 5BT, and MTS also increased significantly. No significant changes were observed in any measures for the C group. The results clearly demonstrated that a 6-week plyometric programme led to improvements in 3-km running performance. It is postulated that the increase in MTS resulted in improved RE. We speculate that the improved RE led to changes in 3-km running performance, as there were no corresponding alterations in VO(2max) or Th(la).

Effects of Resistance Training on Running Economy and Cross-country Performance

“…Although both HRT and PRT results are in accordance with growing literature demonstrating that heavy resistance-training or plyometric training improved the running economy of welltrained athletes ( (15,25,33,36,42,43,46,48), the magnitude of enhancements were lower in our study compared to previous studies reporting effects following heavy-resistance (15,25,33,46) or plyometric training (36, 42,43,48). This could be due to different phases of season that the studies were performed.…”

“…Previous studies (17,36,43) have reported that various forms of resistance training may lead to improved endurance performance in trained subjects. However, the optimal prescription of resistance training to improve endurance running performance has yet to be firmly established.…”

“…Plyometric training is a form of strength training that aims to enhance the ability of the muscles to generate power through the stretch shortening cycle by use of explosive activities such as jumping, hopping and bounding (48). Several studies have indicated improvement in running economy from concomitant plyometric and endurance training (36,43,48). Proposed explanations for the improvement include increased lower body muscle-tendon stiffness, degree of neural input to the muscle, enhanced muscle power development and elastic return, and improved motor unit synchronization (36,37,43).…”

“…Several studies have indicated improvement in running economy from concomitant plyometric and endurance training (36,43,48). Proposed explanations for the improvement include increased lower body muscle-tendon stiffness, degree of neural input to the muscle, enhanced muscle power development and elastic return, and improved motor unit synchronization (36,37,43). Conversely or in concert improvements from either form of resistance training may enhance running mechanics.…”

The effects of single versus twice daily short term heat acclimation on heat strain and 3000m running performance in hot, humid conditions

“…Consequently, for moderately trained individuals used within the study, there b b b ' merely reflect a reduction in perceived exertion and improved thermal comfort under heat stress. Previous studies investigating various interventional strategies on 3 km performance, include intermittent hypoxic (Stray-Gundersen, et al, 2001;Katayama, et al, 2003Katayama, et al, , 2004Rodriguez et al, 2007), plyometric (Spurrs et al, 2003;Pellegrino et al, 2015) and intense training periods (Smith et al, 1999;Coutts, et al, 2007;Esfarjani, et al, 2007), reporting a vast range in improvements from 0.8 to 7.3%. However, the le ' aerobic fitness level, running experience, length and method of intervention vary considerably and so comparisons to this study must be interpreted lightly.…”