Concurrent training improves fitness in youth compared to isolated strength or endurance training
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of concurrent training (combined strength and endurance training) versus isolated strength or endurance training on physical fitness in children and adolescents aged 10-24 years. The analysis focused on studies with an 8-week concurrent training intervention period, though the total sample size and specific study settings were not reported.
For lower-body explosive power, concurrent training showed a significant benefit compared to isolated training (MD = 0.05, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.09, P = 0.009) with no heterogeneity (I² = 0%). For aerobic capacity, the benefit was also significant (MD = 2.05, 95% CI: 0.80 to 3.31, P = 0.001), though with substantial heterogeneity (I² = 82%). Subgroup analyses suggested greater improvements in VO₂ max when strength training preceded endurance training within the same session (MD = 2.06, 95% CI: 0.73 to 3.39, P = 0.002) and when no interval existed between sessions (MD = 2.09, 95% CI: 0.50 to 3.68, P = 0.01). The analysis indicated that concurrent training ≤3 times per week did not produce interference effects.
Safety and tolerability data, including adverse events and discontinuations, were not reported. Key limitations include the high statistical heterogeneity for aerobic outcomes, which suggests variability in the underlying studies, and the lack of reported absolute numbers for clinical interpretation. The practice relevance is that concurrent training may improve cardiorespiratory endurance while maintaining strength in this population, but the optimal implementation requires further study given the methodological limitations.
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