Latest Research

Research Details

Research Title:	Training patterns and sports injuries in triathletes.
Type of Research:
Category:
Keywords:	Training Triathlon Running, cycling
Author(s):	T. Shaw, P. Howat, M. Trainor, B. Maycock
Author(s) Bio Box:
Release Date:	14 April 2005
Research Summary/Text:	Previous studies had identified that training for, or competing in, the running component of the triathlon resulted in the greatest number of injuries and often the most severe. Cycling was the next most risky component. Risk of injury during training increased with increased weekly training distances. Two hundred and fifty-eight West Australian triathletes who participated at a range of competition levels completed a questionnaire recording self-reported injury information from the previous three triathlon seasons.
Research Objectives:	The study aimed to identify associations between training patterns and injuries with a view to assist non-elite level triathletes in planning training programs that minimise the risk of injury.
Research Outcomes:	The results suggest that for non-elite triathletes, the likelihood of sustaining an injury is least when training for a total of 8 -10 hours per week, specifically cycling for five to six hours and running for three to four hours weekly. Time spent on swimming training does not appear to affect injury risk.
Research Implications:	A triathlete may be more likely to risk injury when training at low levels and at high levels. The former may be due to lack of conditioning or poor training practices. The latter may be due in part to an increased risk of injury due simply to greater participation. However, it is likely to be in part the result of overuse and over training. When planning a training regime, non-elite triathletes should train for a total of 8 – 10 hours per week, incorporating 5 – 6 hours of cycling and 3 – 4 hours of running, in order to reduce risk of injury. Time spent on swimming training does not appear to affect injury risk.
[Submit Research Paper]