STRENGTH TRAINING FOR PREVIOUSLY TRAINED ENDURANCE RUNNERS AND CYCLISTS.

This study aimed to review the current literature surrounding concurrent strength and endurance training in previously trained endurance runners and cyclists. A secondary aim is to provide practitioners with specific information to guide the design and implementation of concurrent training for endurance athletes. A database search was conducted in Medline and SPORTDiscus in accordance with the PRISMA checklist. After removing duplicates and title screening for relevance, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. It was found that concurrent strength and endurance training has moderate positive effects on running and cycling economy due to changes in neuromuscular coordination, exercise economy, increases in peak aerobic power output, mean power output, and rate of force development (RFD). No changes in VO2max or blood lactate (bla) are associated with the addition of strength training interventions. Whilst the literature supports the use of concurrent training for endurance athletes, practitioners must be aware of the planning and periodisation of training, specific to their sport and population. Strength training interventions of 6-14-weeks, with maintenance phases up to 15-weeks have shown positive adaptations. Heavy and/ or explosive strength training should focus on key muscle groups used in running and cycling. Resistance training should occur twice weekly in pre-season and 1-2 weekly sessions in season, separated by at least 48 hours. Sessions should incorporate 2-3 sets of each exercise, with loads ranging between 10-1RM (75-100% 1RM). Although heavy and explosive strength training were found to increase running economy, only heavy strength training was found to increase cycling economy. No negative adaptations have been associated with concurrent training, with previous concerns of increased muscle mass leading to decreased VO2max, capillarisation, and increased glycolytic contribution being unwarranted. (Keywords: Endurance; Runners; Cyclists; Strength training; Concurrent training; Performance; Previously trained). ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR