A mathematical model for quantifying training

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Systems Modelling

Background:

• Current methods for calculating training impulse (TRIMP) scores have limitations, including generic weighting factors for exercise intensity.
• Existing TRIMP calculations may not accurately reflect the dose-response relationship of training, particularly for varied exercise intensities and durations.
• There is a need for more precise and individualized methods to quantify training load.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and describe a new method for calculating TRIMP scores using a whole-body bioenergetic model.
• To address the limitations of current TRIMP calculation methods, such as generic weighting factors.
• To enable a more accurate comparison between continuous and interval training methods.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel TRIMP calculation method based on a whole-body bioenergetic model.
• The proposed model incorporates individual specificity, removing limitations of generic approaches.
• Consideration of training session parameters including repetition length, interval concentration, and recovery mode.

Main Results:

• The proposed bioenergetic model offers an individual-specific approach to TRIMP calculation.
• This method potentially overcomes the limitations associated with generic ordinal categories or exponential weighting factors.
• The model facilitates a more nuanced comparison of different training modalities, such as continuous versus interval training.

Conclusions:

• The novel bioenergetic model presents a potential improvement in the accuracy of training load calculations.
• This individualized approach enhances the understanding of the training dose-response relationship.
• Further research is warranted to validate and refine this bioenergetic modelling approach for TRIMP determination.