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PILOT STUDY: IMPACT OF 2.4-KG PROXIMAL EXTERNAL LOADING ON 15-KM RUN PERFORMANCE IN COLLEGIATE CROSS-COUNTRY RUNNERS

Abstract

Savanna Knight1, Tate Dean2, Bandar Alghamdi1, Brett Davis2, Lauren Killen1, Hunter Waldman1, Eric K. O'Neal1. 1University of North Alabama, Florence, AL. 2Auburn University Montgomery, Montgomery, AL.

BACKGROUND: This pilot study investigated the effects of modest changes (< 5% body mass) from a 2.4 kg, gel-based weighted compression garment on running performance in collegiate cross-country runners (F = 5; M =8). METHODS: An outdoor, unweighted 15-km control run (CON) with a pacing goal resulting in a session rate of perceived exertion (RPE) of ~7 on a 10-point scale was completed 7-14 days before a run with load (LOAD) with a goal to match CON pace. In a final session, subjects performed two, 5-minute running economy bouts at the average pace of their CON run (grade: 1%) in the laboratory with and without loading, to examine metabolic data. RESULTS: Performance decreased 1.6 ± 0.7% (p = 0.044) from CON (63.66 ± 7.50 min) to LOAD (64.70 ± 8.09 min), but the decrement was of low magnitude (d = 0.13). Outdoor run heart rate was increased (p < 0.05) by ~10 beats/min at each 2.5-km split during LOAD, and overall and breathing RPE displayed marked favor in CON versus LOAD. Heart rate was also higher during laboratory testing, but no metabolic profile variables were compromised by LOAD despite trends favoring CON. CONCLUSIONS: The addition of 5+ % body mass has been repeatedly shown to negatively influence metabolic demand during running. This is the first investigation to provide evidence that a modest proximal loading challenge can impair longer distance road running performance. Runners should consider this in regards to weight management, body mass changes due to carbohydrate loading/hyperhydration efforts before competition, and when selecting running hydration and gear backpacks.

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