Effects of running volume in training on muscle damage, muscle soreness, and recovery after a marathon : an observational study

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to determine if running volume provides a protective effect to reduce muscle damage, muscle soreness (DOMS), and improve the perceived recovery status (PRS) after a marathon. Ten subjects' training logs were collected including distance run each week and the longest weekly run. Before the marathon (PRE), a blood sample was given to determine serum creatine kinase (CK) levels. DOMS and PRS were determined using separate 0-10 Likert scales. These tests were then completed again one day (Dl), three days (D3), and six days (D6) postmarathon. CK peaked Dl and remained elevated in post-marathon sessions. DOMS increased PRE to Dl, and returned to baseline D3. PRS decreased significantly from PRE to D 1 and did not return to PRE during testing period. Large effect sizes were found between PRE and all post-marathon sessions on CK, DOMS, and PRS data. No significant correlations were found when comparing long run or volume of training to peak and D6 values for CK, DOMS, and PRS. The data indicate that neither the volume of training, nor the length of longest run are related to the magnitude or recovery of muscle damage, DOMS, or PRS.