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Transfer of strength training to running mechanics, energetics, and efficiency.

PMID 35173378 (2022): transfer, strength — Running economy (study note for endurance athletes).

Last updated/Feb 23, 2026, 10:34 PM

Study note • PMID 35173378

Transfer of strength training to running mechanics, energetics, and efficiency.

Biology of sport2022 • DOI 10.5114/biolsport.2021.102807
Evidence C65/100
Action 2: Consider

Worth trying if it fits your goal and context.

ELI5

In plain language

To examine the effects of increased strength on mechanical work, the metabolic cost of transport (Cost), and mechanical efficiency (ME) during running. (randomized trial; n=7 participants).

The abstract doesn’t indicate a clear change in Running economy under the tested conditions. Treat this as a signal, not a guarantee; confirm methods and context in the full paper.

Takeaways

What the abstract suggests

  • Study question: To examine the effects of increased strength on mechanical work, the metabolic cost of transport (Cost), and mechanical efficiency (ME) during running.
  • The abstract doesn’t indicate a clear change in Running economy under the tested conditions.
  • Population: n=7 participants.
  • Protocol cues (title/abstract): 8 weeks • 78 m.

Protocol

Protocol (as reported)

  • Intervention/exposure: transfer, strength (vs control group).
  • Dose/time/duration cues in abstract/title: 8 weeks • 78 m.
  • Outcomes: Running economy.
  • Replication note: abstracts often omit adherence and timing; confirm details before changing training or supplementation.

Fit

Who it helps, and who should skip it

Who it helps

  • Athletes similar to the study population (n=7 participants) working on biomechanics.
  • Athletes who can measure Running economy with a repeatable workout or time-trial effort.

Who should skip

  • If you have symptoms or conditions that make the intervention risky, get professional guidance.
  • If you’re near race day and can’t safely test, defer the experiment.

Methods

What the study actually did

  • Design: randomized trial.
  • Population: n=7 participants.
  • Comparator: control group.
  • Outcomes measured: Running economy.
  • Protocol cues mentioned: 8 weeks • 78 m.
  • Source: PubMed PMID 35173378 (2022) — Biology of sport.

Results excerpt

What the abstract reports

The paired t-test and Wilcoxon test only detected intragroup differences (pre- vs.

Note: excerpts are short; for full context, read the paper.

Limits

Limitations & bias

  • Abstract-only summaries can miss critical details (population, protocol, adherence, and context).
  • Single studies often don’t generalize to your event, history, and training load; treat results as a starting point.
  • If your context differs (elite vs recreational; cycling vs running), adjust expectations and be conservative.
  • This is performance information, not medical advice.

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Sources