No effect of a graded training program on the number of running-related injuries in novice runners: a randomized controlled trial.
BACKGROUND
Although running has positive effects on health and fitness, the incidence of a running-related injury (RRI) is high. Research on prevention of RRI is scarce; to date, no studies have involved novice runners.


OBJECTIVE
A graded training program for novice runners will lead to a decrease in the absolute number of RRIs compared with a standard training program.


METHODS
Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.


METHODS
GRONORUN (Groningen Novice Running) is a 2-armed randomized controlled trial comparing a standard 8-week training program (control group) and an adapted, graded, 13-week training program (intervention group), on the risk of sustaining an RRI. Participants were novice runners (N = 532) preparing for a recreational 4-mile (6.7-km) running event. The graded 13-week training program was based on the 10% training rule. Both groups registered information on running characteristics and RRI using an Internet-based running log. The primary outcome measure was RRIs per 100 participants. An RRI was defined as any musculoskeletal complaint of the lower extremity or back causing a restriction of running for at least 1 week.


RESULTS
The graded training program was not preventive for sustaining an RRI (chi(2) = 0.016, df = 1, P = .90). The incidence of RRI was 20.8% in the graded training program group and 20.3% in the standard training program group.


CONCLUSIONS
This randomized controlled trial showed no effect of a graded training program (13 weeks) in novice runners, applying the 10% rule, on the incidence of RRI compared with a standard 8-week training program.
Buist
Ida
I
University Center for Sport, Exercise and Health, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands. i.buist@sport.umcg.nl
Bredeweg
Steef W
SW
van Mechelen
Willem
W
Lemmink
Koen A P M
KA
Pepping
Gert-Jan
GJ
Diercks
Ron L
RL
D000328:Adult; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010349:Patient Compliance; D010352:Patient Dropouts; D010806:Physical Education and Training / Q000379:methods*; D012420:Running / Q000193:education / Q000293:injuries*