Pilates training improves 5-km run performance by changing metabolic cost and muscle activity in trained runners.

Paula Finatto,Henrique B Oliveira,Alexandre B Okamura,Bruna P Almada,Edson Soares Da Silva,Leonardo A Peyré-Tartaruga,Yury P Ivanenko

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0194057

Paula Finatto, Henrique B Oliveira + Show 5 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0194057

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Journal: PloS one	Publication Date: Mar 21, 2018
Citations: 20	License type: CC BY 4.0

Affiliation: Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul

Abstract

PurposeStrength training improves distance running economy and performance. This finding is based predominantly on maximal and explosive strength programmes applied to locomotor muscles, particularly on the lower limbs. It is not certain whether a minimization of metabolic cost (Cmet) and an improvement in running performance is feasible with strength training of the postural and trunk muscles.MethodsUsing kinematic, neuromuscular and metabolic measurements of running at two different speeds before and after a 12-week Pilates training programme, we tested the hypothesis that core training might improve the running Cmet and performance of trained runners. Thirty-two individuals were randomly assigned to the control group (CG, n = 16) or the Pilates group (PG, n = 16).ResultsConfirming our hypothesis, a significant improvement (p<0.05) was observed for running performance in the PG (pre: 25.65±0.4 min; post: 23.23±0.4 min) compared to the CG (pre: 25.33±0.58 min; post: 24.61±0.52 min). Similarly, the PG (4.33±0.07 J.kg-1.m-1) had better responses than the CG (4.71±0.11 J.kg-1.m-1) during post-training for Cmet. These findings were accompanied by decreased electromyographic activity of the postural muscles at submaximal running intensities in the PG.ConclusionsOverall, these results provide a rationale for selecting strength training strategies that target adaptations on specific postural and locomotor muscles for trained distance runners.

Highlights

From the cardiorespiratory perspective, running performance, at long distances, depends on the interaction of different factors [1], including high maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), the ability to sustain a high fraction of VO2max for long periods, and the ability to move economically [2]
The Pilates group (PG) (4.33±0.07 J.kg-1.m-1) had better responses than the control group (CG) (4.71±0.11 J.kg-1.m-1) during post-training for metabolic cos (Cmet). These findings were accompanied by decreased electromyographic activity of the postural muscles at submaximal running intensities in the PG. These results provide a rationale for selecting strength training strategies that target adaptations on specific postural and locomotor muscles for trained distance runners
The latter parameter is designated as metabolic cost (Cmet) and corresponds to the oxygen consumption spent to move a certain distance by running at a submaximal intensity

Summary

Introduction

From the cardiorespiratory perspective, running performance, at long distances, depends on the interaction of different factors [1], including high maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), the ability to sustain a high fraction of VO2max for long periods, and the ability to move economically [2]. Behm et al.[7] observed that a greater activation of the obliquus externus abdominis muscle and erector muscles of the upper and sacral spine is required during running for the control of movements and that the activation pattern of these muscles may be associated with better performance For this reason, a specific training programme can promote greater stability, which would decrease necessary muscle recruitment and positively affect Cmet [8,9]

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Conclusion