ACUTE EFFECTS OF STRENGTH TRAINING ON RUNNING ECONOMY

Abstract

Sequencing strength training before aerobic conditioning is practised without empirical support. This study explored the acute effects of strength training on running economy and 3-D kinematics in five males. Running was performed on a treadmill at 12 and 14 km/h on three separate occasions. Trial 1 and 2 involved no strength training with data used to assess response stability of the variables. Before Trial 3, three sets of three repetitions at 85% of 1 repetition maximum of squat, bench press and deadlift with 3-5 minutes of rest were performed. Compared to Trial 2 no significant differences were observed when strength training was performed. Only a tendency of increased knee flexion (4.5°) at foot strike at the higher running velocity was observed. This suggests that running kinematics were changed exposing participants to long-term chronic injuries.