Physical And Physiological Responses to Training and Their Association with Performance Outcomes in Young Sub-Elite Middle Distance Runners

Abstract

Introduction: The Middle-distance running events demands combination of endurance, anaerobic power, neuromuscular efficiency, and muscular strength. This study examined how a 12-week structured training program on anthropometric, physical fitness, and physiological variables and performance of the middle-distance runners.
Methods: One hundred and sixty male (age: 18-20 yrs) participants were randomly included, among them thirty were excluded due to illness and injury, the remaining one hundred thirty (n=130) were divided into (i) middle distance runner (n=65) and (ii) sedentary controls (n=65).Assessments of morphological, physical fitness and physiological variables were assessed in 0 wk, 8 weeks, 12 weeks. Data analysis employed repeated measures ANOVA and Pearson’s correlation analysis.
Results: The middle distance runners shows statistically significant improvement (p≤0.05) in middle-distance running performance (1500m), 30m sprint performance, speed, strength (handgrip, back, and leg muscles), explosive power (SBJ and VJ scores), muscular endurance (push-ups and sit-ups scores), anaerobic power, flexibility, maximum aerobic capacity (VO2max), pulmonary function; and significant reduction (p≤0.05) in body weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, reaction time, and heart rate measurements (basal, sub-maximal, maximum, and recovery) and blood pressure after the training when compared to the baseline data. The VO2max showed negative (p<0.05) correlation with BMI and fat mass; positive (p<0.05) correlation with flexibility and speed. Speed showed positive (p<0.05) correlation with back strength, flexibility and anaerobic power. Lung functions showed negative (p<0.05) correlation with body fat and blood lactate levels.
Conclusion: These findings demonstrate training elicits multifaceted adaptations that enhance performance determinants in middle-distance running athletes.