Effects of strength training on bioenergetics parameters determined at velocity corresponding to maximal oxygen uptake in endurance runners

Abstract

Summary Objectives The present study analyzes the impact of a strength training program on bioenergetics parameters determined at velocity corresponding to maximal oxygen uptake ( v V ˙ O 2 max ). Methods Sixteen recreational long-distance runners were divided into strength training (STG, n = 9) and control (CG, n = 7) groups. Before and after 8 weeks, the volunteers performed: maximal incremental treadmill test, constant-speed running at pre-training v V ˙ O 2 max , and maximum dynamic strength test (1RM). Energy cost of running (ECr), and aerobic (AMET) and anaerobic (ANMET) metabolism contributions were estimated at v V ˙ O 2 max . Results No differences were observed at baseline between groups (P > 0.05). After experimental period, there was an increase in 1RM for STG (27 ± 18%, P = 0.008), but not for CG (P > 0.05). The changes in ECr (pre = 0.254 ± 0.038 vs. post = 0.255 ± 0.037 kJ·m−1), AMET (pre = 191.5 ± 26.2 vs. post = 193.0 ± 31.7 kJ), and ANMET (pre = 20.9 ± 6.4 vs. post = 21.0 ± 5.7 kJ) were not significant different (P > 0.05) to STG; as well as to CG (ECr - pre = 0.260 ± 0.046 vs. post = 0.259 ± 0.034 kJ·m−1, AMET - pre = 209.7 ± 30.2 vs. post = 203.3 ± 26.6 kJ, and ANMET - pre = 19.3 ± 6.4 vs. post = 23.9 ± 4.6 kJ). Conclusions These findings suggest that 8 weeks strength training improved the maximum dynamic strength and did not alter bioenergetics parameters measured at v V ˙ O 2 max in recreational endurance runners.