Training-Load Distribution in Endurance Runners: Objective Versus Subjective Assessment.

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Endurance Training

Background:

• Long-distance recreational athletes (LDRs) often follow varied training strategies.
• Optimizing training intensity distribution is crucial for marathon preparation.
• Standardized training methodologies may not always align with individual athlete experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze exercise intensity distribution in LDRs preparing for a marathon.
• To evaluate if perceived exertion correlates with objective training responses.
• To test the hypothesis that session-rating-of-perceived-exertion (RPE) can mirror standardized training outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Seven LDRs were monitored over a 5-month marathon training period.
• Training intensity zones were established using heart rate thresholds (2.0 and 4.0 mmol/L lactate, maximal HR).
• Internal training load (TL) was assessed via training zones, TRIMPi, and session-RPE, with comparisons made between methods.

Main Results:

• LDRs predominantly trained in zone 1 (76.3%), with less time in zones 2 (17.3%) and 3 (6.3%).
• Training load (TL) quantified by session-RPE aligned with training zone data.
• Significant correlations were found between session-RPE and TRIMPi (r=.79), zone 1 time and improved running speed (r=.88), and running speed and marathon completion time (r=-.83).

Conclusions:

• Recreational marathon runners primarily engage in low-intensity training, which is linked to enhanced performance.
• The session-RPE method is a practical tool for assessing training load.
• Session-RPE provides training responses comparable to established, standardized methodologies in LDRs.