Run training vs cross training: influence of increased training on running economy, foot impact shock and run performance.

The purpose of the study was to compare changes in running economy, foot impact shock, run performance, and resting heart rate and blood pressure elicited by increases in training volume via run training (RT) and cross training (CT). After 30 d of normal training (NT), male runners (N = 11) completed two 10 d periods of increased training each preceded by 14 d of reduced training (80% NT). Subjects ran 10 consecutive days in the afternoon (100% of NT) and performed 8 additional workouts in the morning (100% of NT). The morning sessions were performed on a cycle ergometer (CT) or a treadmill (RT). Running economy, foot impact shock and lactate were assessed during submaximal running (3.9 +/- 0.06 m.sec-1) at D0 and D11. Following the submaximal run, subjects completed a simulated 5 km race on a treadmill. VO2 during the running economy test was significantly higher at D11 of CT (52.5 +/- 1.5) compared to RT (51.1 +/- 1.4 ml.kg-1.min-1). RER, carbohydrate oxidation, and lactate were significantly lower; whereas, foot impact shock was significantly higher following both training modes. No significant changes in run performance, resting heart rate and blood pressure occurred during the study. In summary, 10 d of increased training resulted in a reduced running economy for CT, and a lower carbohydrate oxidation and an increase in foot impact shock for both training modes.