Can plyometric training change the pacing behaviour during 10-km running?

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Plyometric training (PT) is known to enhance middle- and long-distance running performance.
• The specific impact of PT on pacing behavior during running remains underexplored.
• Understanding PT's influence on perceived exertion and affective responses is crucial for training optimization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of plyometric training (PT) on pacing behavior in male runners.
• To determine if PT-induced adaptations alter ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and affective feelings during a 10-km time trial.
• To assess changes in drop jump performance, running economy, and physiological markers post-PT.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-eight male runners were divided into a control group and a plyometric training (PT) group.
• The PT group completed two weekly PT sessions over eight weeks.
• Measurements included drop jump performance, 10-km running performance, pacing behavior, RPE, affective feelings, VO2peak, ventilatory thresholds, peak treadmill speed, and running economy.

Main Results:

• The PT group showed significant improvements in drop jump performance (7.2%) and running economy (4.5%).
• No significant changes were observed in pacing behavior during the 10-km time trial for the PT group.
• Ratings of perceived exertion and affective feelings remained unchanged despite improvements in performance metrics.

Conclusions:

• Plyometric training effectively enhances specific performance indicators like drop jump height and running economy in male runners.
• The adaptations from PT do not appear to directly influence pacing strategies or psychological responses during a 10-km time trial.
• Further research may be needed to explore potential indirect effects or optimal integration of PT for pacing behavior modification.