Short Trail Running Race: Beyond the Classic Model for Endurance Running Performance

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Trail running performance is influenced by a complex interplay of physiological and biomechanical factors.
• Traditional endurance running models often focus on maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max), ventilatory threshold (VT), and running economy (RE) on level gradients.
• The specific demands of trail running, including varied terrain and gradients, necessitate a deeper investigation into performance determinants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the contribution of classical physiological variables and muscle strength factors to short trail running performance.
• To identify the most significant predictors of trail running race time in highly trained athletes.
• To compare the predictive power of standard laboratory tests versus more specific trail running assessments.

Main Methods:

• Nine highly trained trail runners completed an official trail race and laboratory testing.
• Laboratory sessions assessed V̇O2max, %V̇O2max at VT, running economy on level and +10% slopes, and maximal knee extension torques.
• Local muscle endurance was evaluated using a fatigue index (FI), and regression analyses identified performance predictors.

Main Results:

• Local muscle endurance (FI) and maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) showed the strongest correlations with trail running performance.
• A model incorporating FI and gradient-specific running economy significantly improved performance prediction (R = 0.98) compared to standard physiological variables alone (R = 0.48).
• FI and V̇O2max were the most significant unique and common contributors to the prediction of trail running race time.

Conclusions:

• Classical physiological variables alone are insufficient for accurately predicting short trail running performance.
• Incorporating local muscle endurance and gradient-specific running economy assessments enhances the characterization of trail running capabilities.
• Future research should consider these more specific factors for a comprehensive understanding of trail running performance.