Impact of 24 weeks of strength training coupled to endurance training on endurance performance (HERO Dolomites 2019)

Abstract

Despite reports are still equivocal, in recent years different studies reported how strength training could impact positively on endurance performance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a long-term strength coupled to endurance training protocol in comparison with endurance training protocol on cycling performance. 14 trained amateurs’ cyclists (males; 27,03 ± 3,75 years; 177,15 ± 5,69 cm; 69,67 ± 8,53 kg; 22,2 ± 1,67 BMI) that completed the Hero Dolomites 2018 competition and signed to the 2019 edition (86 km, 4500 m) participated to the study. 7 of them (treated) followed a 24 weeks strength training coupled to endurance training program to increase performance, the other (untreated) followed their endurance training routines without any specific resistance training protocol. FTP (Functional Threshold Power) test and 1RM (One Repetition Maximum) test (barbell squat and leg press 45°) were planned at week 1, week 8, week 16 and week 24. 2019 race times were compared to 2018 once. Treated individuals showed increased strength (barbell squat: +29,7 ± 7,8 kg; leg press 45°: +53,5 ± 13,1 kg) and FTP (+23,2 ± 9,3 W) from week 1 to week 24. Both treated and untreated individuals improved their race time from 2018 to 2019 (treated: -51,4 ± 24,6 m; untreated: -11,8 ± 14,4 m). Treated individuals improved significantly race time from 2018 compared to untreated individuals (p<0,05). Structured and periodized strength sessions can be incorporated and maintained for the entire duration of a 24 weeks training program impacting positively on endurance performance.