Effect of Concurrent Strength and Endurance Training on Distance Running Performances in Well-Trained Athletes

Abstract

Athletes competing in distance competitions have used a combination of aerobic and anaerobic training approaches to train and enhance the performance-determining elements. Nevertheless, few studies have reported data related to the effect of concurrent training on well-trained distance (3,000 m – 10,000 m) runners. Because of limited evidence available for this population, this study aimed to investigate the effect of concurrent strength and endurance training on distance running performance. A randomized study was conducted. Thirty-nine distance runners (16.62±0.71 years) were randomly assigned into the endurance training group (ETG; n=13), strength training group (STG; n=13), and concurrent training group (CTG; n=13). The 12 weeks of training in which each group trained 3 times a week. The participants were tested on 1RM squat test, push-up test, VO2 max, and 5-km time trial. Findings showed that STG significantly higher than ETG enhancements on 1RMsquat (p<0.001) and push-up (p<0.001) and STG significantly higher than CTG enhancements on 1RM squat (p<0.001), push up (p=0.045). ETG results were significantly better than those obtained by STG on VO2 max (p=0.002) and 5-km time trial (p=0.004). Finally, the improvements obtained by CTG were significantly higher than those attained by ETG on 1RM squat (p<0.001), push-up (p<0.001); VO2 max (p<0.001) and 5-km time trial (p=0.002). In conclusion, performing 12-week concurrent training program improves performance variables that can be obtained with strength and endurance training in long-distance running. Athletes can acquire strength and endurance adaptations by engaging in concurrent training regimens.