I continue the analysis of the
2013 Marathon des Sables runner research, and in this blog entry deals
specifically with cross training. The data on cross-training reveals some
interesting aspects of the practice, while at the same time create a few
questions of its own that only further research could answer.
Cross-Training and
Injuries
From the research data it is
clear that 77% (76.92%) of all finishers used cross-training in one form or the
other as part of their preparation for the event. This high figure was somehow
expected as cross-training has become in recent literature the preferred
training methodology to follow. What wasn’t expected was the result received
once the relationship between cross-training and pre-race injuries were
assessed. Among cross-trainers 33% (32.69%) had pre-race injuries; however,
this figure was substantially lower at 6% (5.77%) among those who had not
used cross-training as part of their preparation.
We must, however, be careful how
we interpret this data as there are some unanswered questions that remain
before a definitive conclusion can be reached. On the one hand, runners with an
existing injury may be using cross-training to maintain cardio fitness while
resting the injury or on the other hand cross-training may be the cause of the
injuries. At this stage we simply don’t know.
Cross-Training per
Finisher Group
Finisher Group
|
%
of Group that Cross Trains
|
%
of Group with Pre-Race Injuries
|
Top 10% (Position 1 to 100)
|
50%
|
0%
|
Next 20% (Position 101 to 300)
|
75%
|
17%
|
Next 40% (Position 301 to 700)
|
95%
|
16%
|
Next 20% (Position 701 to 900)
|
83%
|
42%
|
Last 10% (Position 901 to 1000)
|
0%
|
0%
|
I was somewhat surprised to find
that only 50% of the top 10% runners make use of cross-training, from this, the
notion that cross-training makes a runner stronger and faster, seems to be
challenged. This challenge is supported by the high level of cross trainers
throughout the remainder of the field peaking as high as 95% amongst the
runners in the middle of the field.
When I added the pre-race injury
column the results became even more interesting, however, as I have stated
before some sore research will need to be done to determine the true
relationship between injury and cross-training.
Cross-Training
Activities
The top three cross-training
activities across the entire field is strength training, cycling and walking.
Cross-training among the top ten percent is a little more diverse with swimming
and stretching added to the list, however, strength training remains the
primary cross-training activity among all MdS finishers.
Conclusion
In my view cross-training, and
especially strength training, has a place within the training regime of
ultra-endurance racers. The verdict on cross-training, however, is still not
out and there remain some unanswered questions. These will be answered shortly
when the second round of MdS runners participate in the research.
Thank you for reading my blog. My next entry will deal with nutrition, see you soon,
Genis
