A study out of The University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand, looked at whether a combination of biofeedback and relaxation could decrease oxygen consumption in long distance runners and thus improve their running economy and performance. Seven long distance runners were tested for running economy, peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), peak running velocity, and stretch-shortening cycle efficiency.

These runners then participated in a 6-wk training program in which they learned and practiced relaxation techniques and ran on the treadmill at a velocity eliciting 70% of peak running velocity for 10 min while biofeedback of heart rate (HR), ventilation (VE), and VO2 was presented to them. Data indicated that participants were able to lower their VO2, HR, and VE at lactate threshold by 7.3%, 2.5%, and 9.2%, respectively, using relaxation techniques (P<0.05). Post-tests of lactate threshold, VO2peak, peak running velocity, and stretch-shortening cycle efficiency showed that these changes did not occur as a result of a training effect. The researchers concluded that the improvements in running economy occurred as a result of the relaxation and biofeedback intervention.

Posted: 01/31/2007



This article provided by The International Hypnosis Research Institute.

Enter your email address to subscribe to the IHRI Newsletter.

Anxiety Free Let Your Anxieties Float Away!Hypnosis is a great solution for reducing your feelings of anxiety because it is positive, safe, and gentle.You’ll dip into the resources of your inner mind to develop strategies of deep relaxation and calm your nerves.

Chewing Tobacco No More Chewing Tobacco NO MORE!the power of your collective consciousness will help Tou easily and effortlessly become a non-tobacco user. You’ll be able to eliminate your cravings, your desires, and your overwhelming need to use tobacco products.

Oceans of Relaxation Wave Goodbye To Stress!Regular deep relaxation by hypnosis is the perfect way to avoid the mental and physical damage caused by stress.In just 20 minutes a day melt away pressure and tension over a backdrop of soothing ocean waves&wake up refreshed!