Effects of specific versus cross-training on running performance

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Performance Enhancement

Background:

• The principle of specificity in training suggests that training adaptations are specific to the mode of exercise.
• The cross-training (XT) hypothesis posits that training in one modality can enhance performance in another, even if dissimilar.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of adding swimming (XT) or more running (R) to baseline running training on running performance.
• To compare the impact of specific training versus non-similar cross-training on physiological markers.

Main Methods:

• 30 well-trained individuals participated in an 8-week randomized longitudinal trial.
• Groups included enhanced running (R), swimming cross-training (XT), and continued baseline running (C).
• Evaluations included time trial performance, maximal oxygen uptake (VO2peak), submaximal VO2, and blood lactate concentrations.

Main Results:

• Both R and XT groups improved 3.2 km time trial performance, while the C group showed minimal improvement.
• No significant changes in key running physiological parameters (VO2peak, submaximal VO2, VO2peak velocity, O2 deficit) were observed across groups.
• The R group showed improved velocity at 4 mmol.l-1 blood lactate, while XT showed improvements in arm crank VO2peak and VO2 at 4 mmol.l-1.

Conclusions:

• Muscularly non-similar cross-training (swimming) can contribute to improved running performance.
• Increased specific running training leads to greater improvements in running performance compared to cross-training.
• Cross-training may offer benefits beyond specificity, particularly in untrained muscle groups.