A2 Refereed review article in a scientific journal
Why low-intensity endurance training for athletes?
Authors: Matomäki, Pekka
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Publishing place: NEW YORK
Publication year: 2025
Journal: European Journal of Applied Physiology
Journal name in source: European Journal of Applied Physiology
Journal acronym: EUR J APPL PHYSIOL
Number of pages: 7
ISSN: 1439-6319
eISSN: 1439-6327
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-025-05843-w
Web address : https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-025-05843-w
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/499224303
Endurance athletes prioritize most of their training in low-intensity zone. This forms a paradox, as immediate logic would argue against it: Acutely low-intensity exercise does not challenge the homeostasis or cardiopulmonary system of high-level athletes sufficiently to produce performance gains comparable to those from moderate- or high-intensity exercise. In this perspective study, seven possible explanations for the purpose of excessive-volume low-intensity training in endurance athletes are proposed. The hypotheses are not all mutually exclusive. They range from a psychological need for easy days and the incremental benefits of low-intensity training without accumulating stress, to the possibility that such training may ultimately be replaceable.
Downloadable publication This is an electronic reprint of the original article. |  |
Funding information in the publication:
University of Turku (including Turku University Central Hospital)
