The traditional maximal lactate steady state test versus the 5 × 2000 m test

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Running Performance

Background:

• Maximal lactate steady state velocity (vMLSS) is a key indicator of endurance performance in runners.
• Traditional protocols to determine vMLSS are time-consuming, requiring multiple visits.
• A single-visit protocol, such as the 5x2000m test, could offer a more practical alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the vMLSS estimated from a single-visit 5x2000m test (v5x2000) with the traditional multi-day vMLSS protocol.
• To determine if a lactate steady state exists during time limits (Tlim) at either vMLSS or v5x2000.
• To assess the relationship between these velocities and half marathon (HM) performance.

Main Methods:

• Eight runners completed a half marathon, a traditional vMLSS protocol, and a 5x2000m test in a randomized order.
• Time to exhaustion (Tlim) was measured at both vMLSS and v5x2000 in separate, randomized trials.
• Lactate concentrations were measured during the Tlim trials.

Main Results:

• The traditional vMLSS (13.56±0.90 km·h⁻¹) was significantly higher than the v5x2000 (12.93±0.90 km·h⁻¹).
• Both vMLSS and v5x2000 were positively associated with half marathon velocity (vHM), but did not precisely indicate competition pace.
• Tlim at vMLSS (64±15 min) was shorter than Tlim at v5x2000 (94±21 min) and HM duration (95±5 min); lactate levels increased throughout both Tlim efforts.

Conclusions:

• The 5x2000m test is a potentially useful and time-efficient alternative to the traditional MLSS protocol for assessing runners.
• A true lactate steady state is not achieved during time limits set at either vMLSS or v5x2000.
• Further research may explore the predictive validity of the 5x2000m test for various running distances and populations.