Optimizing strength training for running and cycling endurance performance: A review. 2014

B R Rønnestad, and I Mujika
Section for Sport Science, Lillehammer University College, Lillehammer, Norway.

Here we report on the effect of combining endurance training with heavy or explosive strength training on endurance performance in endurance-trained runners and cyclists. Running economy is improved by performing combined endurance training with either heavy or explosive strength training. However, heavy strength training is recommended for improving cycling economy. Equivocal findings exist regarding the effects on power output or velocity at the lactate threshold. Concurrent endurance and heavy strength training can increase running speed and power output at VO2max (Vmax and Wmax, respectively) or time to exhaustion at Vmax and Wmax. Combining endurance training with either explosive or heavy strength training can improve running performance, while there is most compelling evidence of an additive effect on cycling performance when heavy strength training is used. It is suggested that the improved endurance performance may relate to delayed activation of less efficient type II fibers, improved neuromuscular efficiency, conversion of fast-twitch type IIX fibers into more fatigue-resistant type IIA fibers, or improved musculo-tendinous stiffness.

UI MeSH Term Description Entries
D006801 Humans Members of the species Homo sapiens. Homo sapiens,Man (Taxonomy),Human,Man, Modern,Modern Man
D001642 Bicycling The use of a bicycle for transportation or recreation. It does not include the use of a bicycle in studying the body's response to physical exertion (BICYCLE ERGOMETRY TEST see EXERCISE TEST).
D012420 Running An activity in which the body is propelled by moving the legs rapidly. Running is performed at a moderate to rapid pace and should be differentiated from JOGGING, which is performed at a much slower pace. Runnings
D015308 Anaerobic Threshold The oxygen consumption level above which aerobic energy production is supplemented by anaerobic mechanisms during exercise, resulting in a sustained increase in lactate concentration and metabolic acidosis. The anaerobic threshold is affected by factors that modify oxygen delivery to the tissues; it is low in patients with heart disease. Methods of measurement include direct measure of lactate concentration, direct measurement of bicarbonate concentration, and gas exchange measurements. Anaerobic Thresholds,Threshold, Anaerobic,Thresholds, Anaerobic
D054874 Athletic Performance Carrying out of specific physical routines or procedures by one who is trained or skilled in physical activity. Performance is influenced by a combination of physiological, psychological, and socio-cultural factors. Sports Performance,Athletic Performances,Performance, Athletic,Performance, Sports,Performances, Athletic,Performances, Sports,Sports Performances
D055070 Resistance Training A type of strength-building exercise program that requires the body muscle to exert a force against some form of resistance, such as weight, stretch bands, water, or immovable objects. Resistance exercise is a combination of static and dynamic contractions involving shortening and lengthening of skeletal muscles. Strength Training,Weight-Bearing Strengthening Program,Weight-Lifting Strengthening Program,Weight-Bearing Exercise Program,Weight-Lifting Exercise Program,Exercise Program, Weight-Bearing,Exercise Program, Weight-Lifting,Exercise Programs, Weight-Bearing,Exercise Programs, Weight-Lifting,Strengthening Program, Weight-Bearing,Strengthening Program, Weight-Lifting,Strengthening Programs, Weight-Bearing,Strengthening Programs, Weight-Lifting,Training, Resistance,Training, Strength,Weight Bearing Exercise Program,Weight Bearing Strengthening Program,Weight Lifting Exercise Program,Weight Lifting Strengthening Program,Weight-Bearing Exercise Programs,Weight-Bearing Strengthening Programs,Weight-Lifting Exercise Programs,Weight-Lifting Strengthening Programs
D019344 Lactic Acid A normal intermediate in the fermentation (oxidation, metabolism) of sugar. The concentrated form is used internally to prevent gastrointestinal fermentation. (From Stedman, 26th ed) Lactate,2-Hydroxypropanoic Acid,2-Hydroxypropionic Acid,Ammonium Lactate,D-Lactic Acid,L-Lactic Acid,Propanoic Acid, 2-Hydroxy-, (2R)-,Propanoic Acid, 2-Hydroxy-, (2S)-,Sarcolactic Acid,2 Hydroxypropanoic Acid,2 Hydroxypropionic Acid,D Lactic Acid,L Lactic Acid,Lactate, Ammonium
D064797 Physical Conditioning, Human Diet modification and physical exercise to improve the ability to carry out daily tasks and perform physical activities. Physical Training, Human,Conditioning, Human Physical,Human Physical Conditioning,Human Physical Training,Training, Human Physical

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