title: Physiological adaptations and analysis of training content in high school cross-country runners.
abstract: The purposes of this study were to examine effects of a season of training on aerobic performance in cross-country distance runners and to analyze the training using subjective and objective techniques. Subjects averaged 184 minutes of running per week, with 45%, 24%, and 31% occurring in zones below, near, and above the heart rate (HR) corresponding to ventilatory threshold (VT(HR)), respectively (Zone 1: HR > 15 bpm below VT(HR); Zone 2: HR between Zone 1 and VT(HR); Zone 3: HR > VT(HR)). Maximal oxygen uptake (VO(2 max)) increased by 5.1%, 5-km race time by 46 seconds (3.7%), and 2-km time trial performance by 54 seconds (10.7%) from pre- to postseason. Results are similar to previous research demonstrating that short-term (< 3 months) endurance training elicits improvements in various physiological parameters. Findings were not consistent with previous research that suggests a discrepancy may exist between the runners' perceptions and the physiological effects of their training.
authors.affiliation: Physical Activity Assessment Laboratory, Department of Nutrition and Exercise Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA.
authors.forename: Paul D
authors.initials: PD
authors.lastname: Loprinzi
authors.forename: Gary R
authors.initials: GR
authors.lastname: Brodowicz
mesh_terms: D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D000293:Adolescent; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D006339:Heart Rate / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010101:Oxygen Consumption / Q000502:physiology; D010806:Physical Education and Training; D012123:Pulmonary Ventilation / Q000502:physiology; D012420:Running / Q000502:physiology*; D013997:Time Factors