Effects of Cognitive Stimulation with a Self-Modeling Video on Time to Exhaustion While Running at Maximal Aerobic Velocity: A Pilot Study

Summary.—This study assessed whether video self-modeling improves running performance and influences the rate of perceived exertion and heart rate response. Twelve men (M age = 26.8 yr., SD = 6; M body mass index = 22.1 kg.m−2, SD = 1) performed a time to exhaustion running test at 100 percent maximal aerobic velocity while focusing on a video self-modeling loop to synchronize their stride. Compared to the control condition, there was a significant increase of time to exhaustion. Perceived exertion was lower also, but there was no significant change in mean heart rate. In conclusion, the video self-modeling used as a pacer apparently increased endurance by decreasing perceived exertion without affecting the heart rate.