The Effectiveness of Continuous Training and Fartlek Training in Developing Physical and Physiological Efficiency Indicators among Physical Education Students

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of continuous training and fartlek training in developing physical and physiological efficiency indicators among students of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences. A quasi-experimental design with two equivalent groups and pre- and post-tests was employed. One group followed a continuous training program, while the other followed a fartlek training program for six weeks, three training sessions per week. The studied variables included general endurance, special endurance, and heart rate recovery as indicators of physical and functional efficiency.
     The results showed that both training methods led to significant improvements in the studied variables; however, the pattern of improvement differed according to the nature of load organization in each method. Fartlek training produced a statistically significant superiority in special endurance and showed a greater magnitude of improvement in general endurance, whereas continuous training demonstrated a relative advantage in heart rate recovery. From a comprehensive perspective, fartlek training was more effective in developing the performance-related components of physical and functional fitness among students.
     The study concludes that fartlek training represents a more suitable method for enhancing the functional physical efficiency of physical education students, while continuous training can be used as a complementary approach to support cardiac recovery.