Effects of heavy strength training on performance determinants and performance in cycling and running

14 The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effects of adding heavy strength 15 training to female duathletes’ normal endurance training on both cycling and running 16 performance. Nineteen well-trained female duathletes (VO2max cycling: 54±3 ml∙kg ∙min, 17 VO2max running: 53±3 ml∙kg ∙min) were randomly assigned to either normal endurance 18 training (E, n=8) or normal endurance training combined with strength training (E+S, n=11). 19 The strength training consisted of four lower body exercises [3x4-10 repetition maximum 20 (RM)] twice a week for 11 weeks. Running and cycling performance were assessed using 5 21 min all-out tests, performed immediately after prolonged periods of submaximal work (3 h 22 cycling or 1.5 h running). E+S increased 1RM in half-squat and lean mass in legs more than 23 E. Performance during the 5 min all-out test increased in both cycling and running in E+S 24 whereas no changes occurred in E. The changes in running performance were different 25 between groups. E+S reduced oxygen consumption and heart rate during the final 2 h of 26 prolonged cycling. No changes occurred during the prolonged running in any group. In 27 conclusion, adding strength training to normal endurance training in well-trained female 28 duathletes improved both running and cycling performance when tested immediately after 29 prolonged submaximal work. 30