Background Economy, velocity/power at maximal oxygen
uptake (v _V O2 max=w _VO2 max) and endurance-specific
muscle power tests (i.e. maximal anaerobic running
velocity; vMART), are now thought to be the best performance
predictors in elite endurance athletes. In addition to
cardiovascular function, these key performance indicators
are believed to be partly dictated by the neuromuscular
system. One technique to improve neuromuscular efficiency
in athletes is through strength training.
Objective The aim of this systematic review was to search
the body of scientific literature for original research investigating
the effect of strength training on performance indicators
in well-trained endurance athletes—specifically
economy, v _V O2max=w _VO2max andmuscle power (vMART).
Methods A search was performed using the MEDLINE,
PubMed, ScienceDirect, SPORTDiscus and Web of Science
search engines. Twenty-six studies met the inclusion
criteria (athletes had to be trained endurance athletes with
C6 months endurance training, training C6 h per week OR
_V
O2 max C50 mL/min/kg, the strength interventions had to
be C5 weeks in duration, and control groups used). All
studies were reviewed using the PEDro scale.
Results The results showed that strength training improved
time-trial performance, economy, v _VO2 max=w _V O2 max and
vMART in competitive endurance athletes.
Conclusion The present research available supports the
addition of strength training in an endurance athlete’s
programme for improved economy, v _V O2 max=w _V O2 max,
muscle power and performance. However, it is evident that
further research is needed. Future investigations should
include valid strength assessments (i.e. squats, jump squats,
drop jumps) through a range of velocities (maximalstrength
$ strength-speed $ speed-strength $ reactivestrength),
and administer appropriate strength programmes
(exercise, load and velocity prescription) over a long-term
intervention period ([6 months) for optimal transfer to
performance.