Beyond localized muscular endurance: Strength and Power Training as a means to improve the Aerobic Runner

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of the paper is to highlight and demonstrate how to apply strength and power training to the endurance runner. This paper will discuss physiological adaptations beyond simply localized muscular endurance. Focused literature highlighting effects on oxygen consumption, lactate threshold, running economy and neuromuscular benefits will be further discussed. Search methods: A search was conducted on the wide-body of research that exists in and around the skeletal muscle and sports performance and aligns the research in a clear manner, specifically describing the physiological response of various training to the endurance athlete. Literature gathered involved trails of comparative analysis with control groups in various exercise settings. Main results: In an attempt to clarify the physiological adaptations specific to the endurance runner, the purpose of this paper is to demonstrate and describe how strength and power training can be used with aerobic athletes beyond just localized muscle endurance. The present paper identifies each adaptation specific to the training modality to clarify the scientific evidence for the sport practitioner. Conclusions: Historically, runners have eliminated strength exercises form their training programs due to theorized decreases in VO2max and Lactate Threshold. However, the majority of research analyzing those two variables has been conducted with stand-alone methodology. Concurrent strength and endurance training research has not displayed negative effects on in VO2max and Lactate Threshold and furthermore has produced favorable adaptions to both running economy and neuromuscular coordination delaying fatigue. It is therefore suggested endurance based runners perform strength and or power training to maximize running economy and delay fatigue.