Comparison of Polarized, Pyramidal, and Threshold Training Intensity Distribution on Physiological and Performance Outcomes in Recreational Distance Runners
试验速览
- 阶段
- 不适用
- 状态
- 已完成
- 入组人数
- 24
- 试验地点
- 1
- 主要终点
- Maximal Oxygen Uptake (VO₂max)
研究概览
简要总结
This study aims to compare the effects of three different training intensity distribution (TID) models-polarized, threshold, and pyramidal-on physiological and performance adaptations in recreational distance runners. Twenty-four participants will be assigned to one of the three training interventions and will complete an 8-week structured running program based on the respective TID approach.
The primary objective is to determine whether different TID models elicit distinct changes in key physiological markers and endurance performance. The study seeks to answer whether a specific intensity distribution strategy provides superior adaptations in recreational runners when training is prescribed over a controlled intervention period.
详细描述
This study adopts a parallel-group experimental design to compare the effects of three training intensity distribution (TID) models-polarized, threshold, and pyramidal-on physiological and performance adaptations in recreational distance runners.
Eligible participants are required to be recreational runners with a minimum training frequency of four sessions per week. Following enrollment, all participants complete a one-week pre-intervention phase dedicated to baseline assessments and familiarization with testing procedures.
During this phase, participants will performe a comprehensive physiological evaluation to determine key endurance-related variables. These include ventilatory thresholds (e.g., VT1 and VT2), running economy, and maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max), assessed through an incremental exercise test under standardized laboratory conditions. In addition, participants perform a 5-km time trial on a standardized course or controlled conditions to assess endurance performance.
Based on the physiological assessment, individual training intensities are prescribed using a five-zone intensity model derived from ventilatory thresholds and maximal aerobic capacity. This approach allows for precise classification of training load and ensures consistency in the application of the three TID models across participants.
Following baseline testing, participants are allocated to one of the three intervention groups (polarized, threshold, or pyramidal) and complete an 8-week structured endurance training program. Each training model differs in the relative distribution of time spent across the five intensity zones, while overall training frequency and general structure are maintained comparable between groups.
研究设计
- 研究类型
- Interventional
- 分配方式
- Randomized
- 干预模型
- Parallel
- 主要目的
- Other
- 盲法
- Single (Investigator)
入排标准
- 年龄范围
- 18 Years 至 60 Years（Adult）
- 性别
- All
- 接受健康志愿者
- 是
入选标准
- •age ≥ 18 years;
- •a habitual training frequency of ≥ 4 sessions·week
- •running experience ≥ 2 years;
- •absence of musculoskeletal injuries in the preceding 3 months
排除标准
- •an official 10-km race time > 40:00 min:s for men and > 50:00 min:s for women
- •any cardiometabolic disease
研究组 & 干预措施
Polarized training Intensity Distribution
Participants assigned to the polarized training group perform an 8-week structured endurance training program characterized by a high proportion of low-intensity exercise and a smaller proportion of high-intensity exercise, with minimal time spent at moderate intensities. Training intensity is prescribed using an individualized five-zone model based on baseline physiological assessments. The majority of training is performed in the lowest intensity zones (Zones 1-2), while high-intensity sessions are conducted in the highest zones (Zones 4-5). Training load and adherence are monitored using GPS-enabled sport watches.
干预措施: Polarided training intensity distribution (Other)
Threshold Training Intensity Distribution
Participants assigned to the threshold training group complete an 8-week structured endurance training program emphasizing a greater proportion of training at moderate-to-high intensities, particularly around the second ventilatory threshold. Training intensity is prescribed using an individualized five-zone model derived from baseline physiological assessments. A substantial portion of training is performed in intermediate zones (Zones 3-4), with comparatively less time spent at low (Zones 1-2) and high intensities (Zone 5). Training sessions are monitored via GPS-enabled sport watches to ensure adherence.
干预措施: Threshold Training Intensity Distribution (Other)
Pyramidal training Intensity Distribution
Participants assigned to the pyramidal training group perform an 8-week structured endurance training program characterized by a progressive decrease in training volume from low to high intensities. Training intensity is prescribed using an individualized five-zone model based on baseline physiological assessments. Most training is accumulated in low-intensity zones (Zones 1-2), with moderate amounts in intermediate zones (Zone 3) and smaller proportions at higher intensities (Zones 4-5), forming a pyramidal distribution. Training load and compliance are monitored using GPS-enabled sport watches.
干预措施: Pyramidal Training Intensity Distribution (Other)
结局指标
主要结局
Maximal Oxygen Uptake (VO₂max)
时间窗: Baseline to 8 weeks
Assessment of changes in maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) obtained during an incremental exercise test. VO₂max is used as a measure of maximal aerobic capacity and cardiorespiratory fitness.
Ventilatory Thresholds and Associated Running Speeds
时间窗: Baseline to 8 weeks
Assessment of changes in the first and second ventilatory thresholds (VT1 and VT2) and their corresponding running speeds, determined during an incremental exercise test. These variables reflect submaximal endurance capacity and physiological determinants of performance and their changes after intervention.
Running Economy
时间窗: Baseline to 8 weeks
Assessment of changes in running economy, defined as the oxygen cost of running at a standardized submaximal speed during laboratory testing. This measure reflects the efficiency of movement during endurance exercise.
Changes in 5-km time trial performance
时间窗: Baseline to 8 weeks
Assessment of changes in endurance performance measured as completion time in a 5-km time trial conducted under standardized conditions. Pre- to post-intervention differences are used to evaluate the effect of the training interventions on real-world running performance.
次要结局
未报告次要终点
研究者
Luis Eduardo Ranieri
Principal Investigator
Universidad Rey Juan Carlos