Maximum Strength versus Strength Endurance Resistance Training

Abstract

0396 Many training programs utilized by endurance athletes today include resistance training of some kind, to some degree, in efforts to improve fitness and performance parameters. However, there is a wide variety of protocols employed, differing in loads used, volume, rest periods, frequency, and speed of motion. Two different styles of training, one utilizing heavy loads and low repetitions (Maximum Strength, MS) and the other using low resistance and high repetitions (Strength Endurance, SE), are common methods used by coaches and athletes in a variety of endurance sports. PURPOSE: to compare MS, SE, and cycling-only (C) training interventions on selected aspects of performance in trained cyclists. METHODS: After obtaining university approved informed consent, 23 cyclists from Colorado State University's cycling team and community clubs were random1y placed into MS, SE, and C groups. Testing was conducted before and after the 10 week study period. The MS group performed 4 sets of 4RM, while the SE group performed 2 sets of 20RM. All three groups followed the same cycling program, with the resistance training included in addition to the cycling. There were three sessions in the weight room per week, and the exercises performed were squats, leg press, leg curl, and single leg step-up. Testing consisted of a lactate profile on a cycling ergometer, with blood lactate being sampled at the conclusion of each four minute stage, and maximum strength 1RM testing of the four exercises. RESULTS: There were significant gains in all four strength training lifts (p > .05), for both strength training groups. However, there were no significant differences (p > .05) found between any of the three training groups on the cycling test in lactate values and VO2 values at specified loads. CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that for trained, club-level cyclists, neither maximum strength nor strength endurance resistance training provide any additional performance benefit when compared to cycling alone over this length of training time.