EFFECTIVENESS OF A CONCISE TRAINING REGIMEN FOR RECREATIONAL RUNNERS TO OPTIMIZE THEIR FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME: A STUDY PROTOCOL

Abstract

Background: Running is a popular form of physical activity that offers several health benefits; however, optimal running performance requires adequate core stability, balance, agility, coordination, and muscular power. A structured, time-efficient training programme incorporating these components may help improve functional performance among recreational runners. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a six-week training regimen targeting core strength, balance, and agility in optimizing functional outcomes among recreational runners. Methods: A pre-test and post-test pilot study will be conducted at Mangalayatan University, Aligarh, in the Physiotherapy Outpatient Department and on the university synthetic ground. Purposive sampling will be used to recruit 16 recreational runners aged 18–54 years, allowing for an anticipated dropout rate. Eligible participants will be required to be actively engaged in regular running activities and willing to participate. The intervention will be conducted three times per week for six weeks, with each session lasting approximately 45 minutes and including warm-up, structured exercises, and cool-down. The training programme will incorporate exercises targeting core stability, balance, agility, and muscular power. Functional outcomes will be assessed before and after the intervention using the Illinois Agility Test, Standing Long Jump Test, Trunk Stability Test, and Y-Balance Test. Changes in test performance will be used to evaluate the effects of the training programme. Expected Results: The intervention is expected to improve agility, dynamic balance, trunk stability, and lower limb power among recreational runners. Improvements are anticipated in Illinois Agility Test performance, Y Balance Test scores, trunk stability, and standing long jump distance following the six-week programme. Conclusion: This pilot study is expected to provide preliminary evidence regarding the feasibility and potential effectiveness of a concise, structured training regimen for improving functional outcomes in recreational runners. The findings may help inform the development of time-efficient supplementary training programmed for recreational running. However, the small sample size and absence of a control group may limit the generalizability of the findings and the ability to establish causal effects.