Effect of accurate and inaccurate distance feedback on performance markers and pacing strategies during running

This study assessed the effect of distance feedback on athletic performance, physiological and perceptual markers and the pacing strategies utilized during treadmill exercise. Thirteen men completed four self-paced 6 km treadmill time trials with either accurate, inaccurate or no distance feedback (NF). Inaccurate time trials involved participants receiving premature (PF) or delayed (DF) feedback, before or following the completion of each kilometer. The provision of accurate or inaccurate distance feedback (PF, DF) did not moderate the completion time or the rate of change in the ratings of perceived exertion (P>0.05). However, completion times were significantly slower when exercising with no distance feedback (P<0.001). Heart rate (HR), oxygen uptake ((V) over dotO(2)) and running velocity all increased during the conditions (P<0.001). A significantly lower (V) over dotO(2) (up to 7%) and HR (up to 6%) were observed during NF. This study has demonstrated that athletic performance and perceptual and physiological responses are unaffected by inaccurate distance feedback. However, the study indicates that individuals may exercise at a lower metabolic intensity when running without distance feedback.