Coach Honea's thesis. Congratulations on you degree, Coach!
Abstract: Previous research has shown that runners who cross-train can maintain
physiological parameters such as maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) but
has been equivocal about the ability to maintain competitive running
performance while cross-training. In this study, a group of high school
cross country runners was tested immediately after their season on a
treadmill for VO2max, lactate threshold, and running economy. They also
performed a 3000-meter time trial. Following the tests, the runners were
assigned to one of two cross-training groups, using either elliptical
exercise machines or stationary bicycles, and given assigned workouts to
replace all running. After five weeks of cross-training, the treadmill
and performance tests were repeated. A control group of runners
completed the same tests but continued normal off-season run training.
Post-study 3-km time trials were significantly slower than the pre-study
for both cross-training groups, while the control group showed
non-significant improvements. Differences between the elliptical trainer
and stationary bike groups were not statistically significant. No
significant changes were found in any group for VO2max or lactate
threshold. Cross-training with either an elliptical trainer or a
stationary bike maintained VO2max and lactate threshold as measured
during treadmill running, but they did not preserve running performance
level.
Should be good snow day reading. There is also a poster version, but you'll miss the impressive literature review.
