Training Profile Counts for Time-to-Exhaustion Performance

Abstract

The objective of this study was to compare the time to exhaustion (Tlim) at maximal aerobic speed ([Formula: see text]) in middle- and long-distance runners. Five middle-distance (MDR) and 5 long-distance (LDR) male runners, ages 28 ± 7 years, were tested running on a treadmill, with the Université de Montréal Track Test (UMTT), on maximal velocity and on time-to-exhaustion track tests. During the laboratory test, cardiorespiratory variables (e.g., HR, [Formula: see text]) were assessed. Second, running velocity at [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text]) during the UMTT was determined and HR values were recorded; also, maximal velocity on a 30-m sprint (V30) and maximal heart rate (HR max) and time to exhaustion were determined on the track. No significant difference was observed between groups during the multistage treadmill test. Significant differences were found between groups for V30 and Tlim, with MDR showing a 23% longer running time than LDR. The results of the present study demonstrated that the training profile of middle-distance and long-distance runners plays a significant role in Tlim performance when [Formula: see text] is obtained during a test with short-duration stages. Key words: maximal oxygen uptake, runners, time limit (Tlim)