Author(s): P Natarajan, S Ramesh Kumar and M Niraipandiyan

Abstract:
This study investigated the effects of fartlek training, core strength training and a combined approach on cardiovascular endurance among athletes specializing in sprint events such as the 200m and 400m. These events require both sustained high-intensity effort and strong aerobic capacity, along with muscular stability. Traditional training programs often focus on singular methods, potentially missing the benefits of combining different modalities. To explore this, a total of 60 male track athletes aged 18 to 25 were randomly assigned to one of four groups: fartlek training, core strength training, a combined fartlek and core program, or a control group with no intervention. The experimental groups trained three times per week over a 12-week period. Cardiovascular endurance was assessed using the Cooper 12-minute run test before and after the intervention. A one-way ANCOVA followed by Scheffé's post-hoc test was employed to determine differences among the groups. The analysis revealed that all three training groups showed statistically significant improvements in cardiovascular endurance compared to the control group. Additionally, the combined training group exhibited significantly greater gains than either the fartlek or core training groups individually. These findings suggest that integrating both aerobic and core strength components leads to more substantial improvements in cardiovascular endurance, highlighting the effectiveness of a multifaceted training strategy for sprint athletes.

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