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Study note

Effect of Strength Training Programs in Middle- and Long-Distance Runners' Economy at Different Running Speeds: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis.

PMID 38165636 (2024): strength training, plyometric — Running economy, Injury risk (study note for endurance athletes).

Updated Jul 22, 2026

Read the study note

Study note • PMID 38165636

Effect of Strength Training Programs in Middle- and Long-Distance Runners' Economy at Different Running Speeds: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis.

Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)2024 • DOI 10.1007/s40279-023-01978-y

How to use this page

This note summarizes one study record. Check the participants, methods, results, and limitations before applying it to training.

  • Design signal: systematic review / meta-analysis.
  • Population relevance: athlete/trained context.
  • Consistency: synthesis evidence present.
  • Practical recommendation depends on tolerance, context, and whether it protects training consistency.

ELI5

In plain language

To compare the effect of different strength training methods (e.g., high loads, plyometric, combined methods) on the running economy in middle- and long-distance runners, over different running speeds, through… (systematic review / meta-analysis; well-trained runners).

In this systematic review / meta-analysis, the abstract doesn’t find a clear benefit for Running economy. Treat this as a signal, not a guarantee; confirm methods and context in the full paper.

Takeaways

What the abstract suggests

  • Study question: To compare the effect of different strength training methods (e.g., high loads, plyometric, combined methods) on the running economy in middle- and long-distance runners, over different running speeds, through…
  • In this systematic review / meta-analysis, the abstract doesn’t find a clear benefit for Running economy.
  • Population: well-trained runners.
  • Protocol cues (title/abstract): 3 weeks • 24 weeks • 85 km • 45 km • 00 km.

Protocol

Protocol (as reported)

  • Intervention/exposure: strength training, plyometric.
  • Dose/time/duration cues in abstract/title: 3 weeks • 24 weeks • 85 km • 45 km • 00 km.
  • Outcomes: Running economy, Injury risk.
  • Replication note: abstracts often omit adherence and timing; confirm details before changing training or supplementation.

Fit

Who it may help, and who should be cautious

Who it helps

  • Athletes similar to the study population (well-trained runners) working on strength.
  • Athletes who can measure Running economy, Injury risk with a repeatable workout or time-trial effort.

Who should be cautious

  • 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: systematic review / meta-analysis.
  • Population: well-trained runners.
  • Outcomes measured: Running economy, Injury risk.
  • Protocol cues mentioned: 3 weeks • 24 weeks • 85 km • 45 km • 00 km.
  • Source: PubMed PMID 38165636 (2024) — Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.).

Results excerpt

What the abstract reports

Compared to a control condition, strength training with high loads, plyometric training, and a combination of strength training methods may improve running economy in middle- and long-distance runners.

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

Limits

Limitations and bias

  • Abstract-only summaries can miss critical details (population, protocol, adherence, and context).
  • Reviews and consensus statements mix protocols and populations; recommendations may not match your exact constraints.
  • 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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