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Abstract
Objective We aimed to investigate the effects of two tapering strategies on specific endurance-related performance markers in some selected athletic training centres of Ethiopia.
Methodology Thirty-seven young distance runners (mean age: 20±1.97 years; mean training period: 2.43±0.603 years) were randomly assigned to high-intensity low-volume (HILV) and high-intensity moderate-volume (HIMV) taper groups. Training frequencies were five times per week conducted for 2 weeks in both groups. At baseline and after 2 weeks of the taper intervention, the average red blood cell (RBC) count, haemoglobin (Hgb) concentration and haematocrit percentages (Hct) of the participants were measured and analysed using a complete blood count (sysmix) instrument.
Results Using a parallel-group design, we investigated the effects of the two tapering strategies (HILV and HIMV), and positive changes were observed in the endurance-related physiological traits of RBC count, Hgb concentration and Hct percentages regardless of the amount of volume reduced during the 2-week taper period. Comparisons of the two strategies did not reveal significant differences between the taper groups.
Conclusion Taper strategies characterised by HILV and HIMV training load have beneficial effects on the improvement of endurance performance. Reduction of training load-training volume did not affect endurance performance, instead these could induce extra adaption of the body physiology.
- Tapering
- High intensity-low volume
- High intensity-moderate volume
- physiological traits
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Footnotes
Contributors AAJ developed the preliminary ideas and was involved in every procedure of the entire study. SM was involved in editing, modifying and shaping the research work. MA and DM initiated the study design and helped in conducting the primary statistical analysis. All authors contributed to the refinement of the study protocol and approved the final manuscript.
Funding The authors have not declared a specific grant for this research from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.
Patient and public involvement statement Patients were not directly involved in the design of this study.
Patient consent for publication Not required.
Ethics approval Ethical approval was obtained from Mekelle University College of Health Sciences Health Research Ethics Review Committee (HRERC), with ref no ERC0772/2016. Information confidentiality and individual’s right were boldly stated.
Provenance and peer review Not commissioned; internally peer reviewed.