Training Load-Guided Versus Standardized Endurance Training in Recreational Runners

Moritz Schumann, Javier Botella, Laura Karavirta, Keijo Häkkinen

Publication: Contribution to journalJournal articlesResearchpeer-review

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study compared the effects of a standardized endurance training program with individualized endurance training modified based on the cumulative training load provided by the Polar Training Load Feature.

METHODS: After 12 weeks of similar training, 24 recreationally endurance-trained men were matched to a training load-guided (TL, n=10) or standardized (ST, n=14) group and continued training for 12 weeks. In TL, training sessions were individually chosen daily based on an estimated cumulative training load, while in ST the training was standardized with 4-6 sessions·week(-1). Endurance performance (Shortest 1000m running time during an incremental field test of 6×1000m) and heart rate variability (HRV) were measured every 4 and VO2max during an incremental treadmill test every 12 weeks.

RESULTS: During weeks 1-12, similar changes in VO2max and 1000m time were observed both in TL (+7±4%, p=0.004 and -6±4%, p=0.069) and ST (+5±7%, p=0.019 and -8±5%, p<0.001). During weeks 13-24, VO2max statistically increased in ST only (3±4%, p=0.034). 1000m time decreased in TL during weeks 13-24 (-9±5%, p=0.011) but in ST only during weeks 13-20 (-3±2%, p=0.003). The overall changes in VO2max and 1000m time during weeks 0-24 were similar in both TL (+7±4%, p=0.001 and -9±5%, p=0.011) and ST (+10±7%, p<0.001 and -13±5%, p<0.001). No between-group differences in total training volume and frequency were observed. HRV remained statistically unaltered in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS: The main finding was that training performed according to the cumulative training load led to similar improvements in endurance performance as standardized endurance training in recreational endurance runners.

Original languageEnglish
JournalInternational journal of sports physiology and performance
Volume12
Issue number3
Pages (from-to)295-303
Number of pages9
ISSN1555-0265
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2017

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