Prescribing 6-weeks of running training using parameters from a self-paced maximal oxygen uptake protocol

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Training Methodology

Background:

• The self-paced maximal oxygen uptake test (SPV) is a potential tool for developing effective training prescription metrics.
• Traditional graded exercise tests (GXT) are commonly used for exercise prescription.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if data derived from the SPV can be utilized for effective training prescription in athletes.
• To compare the efficacy of SPV-derived training with traditional GXT-based training.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-four runners were divided into Standardised (STND) and Self-Paced (S-P) training groups.
• Both groups underwent 4 weekly running sessions, including intervals, recovery, and tempo runs, over 6 weeks.
• Training prescriptions differed: STND used GXT data, while S-P used SPV data (vRPE20).

Main Results:

• Both STND and S-P training groups showed significant improvements in maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), critical speed (CS), and lactate threshold (LT).
• SPV-trained athletes improved VO2max by 6±6%, CS by 3±3%, and LT by 7±8%.
• No significant differences in performance improvements were observed between the STND and S-P groups.

Conclusions:

• Novel metrics from the SPV can be effectively used for training prescription.
• SPV-derived training prescription leads to comparable improvements in VO2max, CS, and LT as traditional GXT-based training.
• SPV offers a viable alternative for exercise training prescription in athletes.