Effect of brain endurance training on maximal oxygen uptake, time‐to‐exhaustion, and inhibitory control in runners

Abstract

We aimed to analyze the effect of brain endurance training on maximum oxygen consumption (VO_2máx), time‐to‐exhaustion, and inhibitory control in amateur trained runners. We employed a mixed experimental design, with the group as the between‐participant factor and time as the within‐participant factor. 45 participants attended 36 training sessions over 12 weeks. The cognitive training group (CT) performed the Stroop word‐color task [trials of each type (congruent, incongruent, and neutral) were randomly presented during each training session], the endurance training group (ET) participated in a running training program (intensity was 60%Δ of maximal aerobic velocity and performed on a motor‐driven treadmill), and the brain endurance training group (BET) make cognitive and endurance training simultaneously over 12 weeks. The total time of each session (i.e., 20–40 min) was identical in the experimental groups. VO_2máx, time‐to‐exhaustion, and inhibitory control tests were measured before (baseline) and after (post‐experiment) the 12‐week intervention. A significant effect of interaction (group × time) for VO_2máx (p < 0.05) was found. A post‐hoc test showed an increase in VO_2máx from baseline to post‐experiment only for ET (Δ% = 2.98) and BET (Δ% = 3.78) groups (p < 0.05). Also, the analyses showed a significant interaction (group × time) for time‐to‐exhaustion (p < 0.05), and a post‐hoc test revealed an improvement in time‐to‐exhaustion for ET (Δ% = 8.81) and BET (Δ% = 11.01) (p < 0.05). No group × time interaction was found for accuracy and response time in the inhibitory control task (p > 0.05). The results conclude that BET was not superior to ET for improving VO_2máx and time‐to‐exhaustion. Also, the findings conclude that BET improved inhibitory control similar to CT.