My Transformative Summer of Running: Replication of Four Studies Relating to Running Outside of a Laboratory Setting

Abstract

The objective of this project is to ascertain whether a person could improve their running performance by replicating a set of four scientific studies on running back-to- back over a six-week period outside of a laboratory setting. The studies in question deal with the effects of pre-workout caffeine consumption, pre-workout beetroot consumption, sprint interval training, and Pilates training. Additionally, various challenges that come with reproducing these studies outside of a laboratory setting, personal fitness triumphs and complications, and reflections on this journey are recorded daily in a colloquial register throughout the process. Varying degrees of success are achieved with each trial, and upon completion of the four trials, the author reflects upon significant personal and fitness growth that she has accomplished through this endeavor.