Behavior of perceptual variables during 8 weeks of Brain Endurance Training with recreational runners
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11606/issn.1981-4690.2026e40233247Keywords:
Running, Perception, Effort, Visuomotor taskAbstract
The objective of this study was to analyze the behavior of perceptual variables over 8 weeks of Brain Endurance Training (BET). This is a randomized controlled experimental study with parallel groups and repeated measures. The study included 25 recreational runners of both sexes (age: 26.2±3.4; weight: 74.6±13.8; height: 1.71±0.1), who performed 24 training sessions over eight weeks, divided into a BET group (endurance training + cognitive training; n=14) and an endurance-only group (END) (n=11). Randomization was block-based and stratified by sex. The training sessions lasted 30 minutes, consisting of three 10-minute blocks with a 1-minute interval between blocks, during which perceptual variables (subjective perception of effort, mental fatigue, and sense of pleasure/displeasure) were collected at the end of each block. Running speed was individualized based on the maximum incremental test. The BET group performed a visuomotor task using led lights while running on a treadmill. The general mixed model (GMM) was used for statistical analysis. The results indicated different behaviors in the perception of effort, mental fatigue, and pleasure/displeasure among the groups. Post-hoc analysis showed significant increases in subjective perception of effort between the 1st and 7th weeks (p=0.019) and the 1st and 8th weeks (p=0.001) in the END group only. Meanwhile, mental fatigue was lower in the BET group between the 7th and 8th weeks of training (p<0.05). It is concluded that the BET group can maintain perceptual responses throughout a training program, while training with END alone seems to increase the sensation of effort, mental fatigue, and greater displeasure.
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