Physiological Responses in Trail Runners during a Maximal Test with Different Weighted-Vest Loads

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Trail running races often require athletes to carry essential equipment, increasing the load mobilized during competition.
• Understanding the physiological impact of this added load is crucial for optimizing performance and preventing injury.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the physiological responses of well-trained male trail runners to varying levels of added load.
• To determine the effect of load carriage on metabolic zones, including ventilatory thresholds and maximal fat oxidation.

Main Methods:

• Seventeen male trail runners underwent maximal treadmill tests with weighted vests at 0% (L0), 5% (L5), and 10% (L10) of body mass.
• Gas exchange, heart rate, power output, and velocity were monitored to assess physiological parameters.
• Statistical analysis (one-way ANOVA) was used to compare differences between load conditions.

Main Results:

• A significant decrease in peak velocity was observed at 10% body mass load (L10) compared to L0 and L5.
• Peak absolute power output increased significantly with the L10 load compared to L0 and L5.
• Loads exceeding 5% of body mass induced notable physiological and mechanical changes.

Conclusions:

• A 5% body mass load appears to be a threshold for maintaining running conditions without significant overload.
• Loads of 10% or more can substantially alter running economy and physiological responses, necessitating strategic adjustments.
• Findings provide insights for training and race strategies concerning load management in trail running.