Abstract
Aims: The study aimed to evaluate the effects of a backward running (BR) training program prescribed by the peak backward running velocity (Vpeak_BR) on physiological variables and a 3 km forward running (FR) performance. Methods: Eight untrained running male adults in running took place in the study. All the participants underwent five weeks of BR training prescribed based on Vpeak_BR. They performed a maximal incremental test on the treadmill to determine the maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) and the velocity associated with V̇O2max (vV̇O2max). The participants were also tested on the track field to determine the Vpeak_BR and undertook a 3 km FR performance. All initial assessments were also performed after the training period. Results: The results showed statistically significant improvements in 3 km FR performance (14.2 ± 1.2 min vs. 13.5 ± 1.0 min) and Vpeak_BR (8.0 ± 0.8 km·h−1 vs. 8.5 ± 0.5 km·h−1) after the training period. Conclusion: BR training effectively improved 3 km FR performance and Vpeak_BR, demonstrating that Vpeak_BR determined according to the protocol proposed in this study can be used for the prescription of BR training. Further, BR training represents an effective training method that can be inserted into an FR running training program.
Highlights
Backward running (BR) has been presented in the literature as a form of locomotion retrograde to forward running (FR), which presents a unique energetic, biomechanical profile and cardiopulmonary response[1,4]
BR has been used as a method of maintaining cardiovascular fitness as well as a means of rehabilitating athletes and physical exercise practitioners suffering from joint injuries[4,6,7]
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a BR training program prescribed by the peak backward running velocity (Vpeak_BR) on physiological variables and a 3 km FR performance
Summary
Backward running (BR) has been presented in the literature as a form of locomotion retrograde to forward running (FR), which presents a unique energetic, biomechanical profile and cardiopulmonary response[1,4]. It is characterized as a low-impact exercise that promotes improvements in neuromuscular performance, reducing the risk of joint damage[1,5]. BR has been used in sports training programs to increase muscle pre-activation It is deployed as a method of promoting improvements in physiological and performance variables [e.g., maximal oxygen uptake (V O2max), anaerobic power, lower limb strength parameters, and agility]1,2,7. BR has not yet been investigated as a training method for improving FR performance
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