A Comparison of Three Different Warm-Ups on 800-Meter Running Performance in Elite Division I Track Athletes - A Pilot Study.

Track and Field athletes perform different types of warm-ups at varying levels of volume and/or intensity prior to competition. Theoretically, this prepares sport specific muscles for activity by increasing muscle temperature, thus mitigating the chance for injury. There is a paucity of information regarding the optimum level for warm-ups regarding maximizing performance in middle distance events. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of three different warm-ups on 800-meter performance. Thirteen Division I student-athletes (seven males and six females) from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) who were middle distance runners participated in this study. We utilized a randomized, cross-over study design to test low, medium, and high-volume warm-up protocols on 800-meter performance. Trials were conducted over a span of three weeks on a SEC University outdoor track. We used a 2 (Sex) x 3 (Warm-Up Protocol) mixed-factor ANOVA, and our results show a main effect of warm-up volume that is not moderated by sex. Post-hoc tests reveal a high-volume warm-up yields superior results for the 800-meter run in comparison to a medium volume warm-up, which provides better results than a low-volume warm-up. These findings may be of value in providing information in program design for coaches on the most effective warm-up protocols for 800-meter runners. Identifying the best warm-up protocol to prime an 800-meter runner for peak performance may not only assist in preventing injury, but enhance performance thus leading to an increased of achievement, and confidence in personal ability.