Quantification of aerobic determinants of performance in post-pubertal adolescent middle-distance runners

The use of oxygen cost ([Formula: see text]_aero) parameters to predict endurance performance has recently been criticized. Instead, it is suggested that aerobic energy cost ([Formula: see text]) provides greater validity; however, a comparison of these quantification methods has not previously been made.

Fifty-six male (n = 34) and female (n = 22) competitive adolescent (17 ± 1 years) middle-distance runners participated in a sub-maximal and maximal incremental treadmill test. Running economy (RE) was measured at the speed corresponding to lactate turnpoint, and the three speeds prior. Maximal oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text]O₂max), speed at [Formula: see text]O₂max and fraction of [Formula: see text]O₂max utilized across a range of intensities, and speeds from 0.8, 1.5 and 3 km races were also quantified. RE and fractional utilization were calculated in units of [Formula: see text]_aero and [Formula: see text]_aero.

Multiple linear regression models demonstrated no discernible difference in the predictive capability of RE, fractional utilization and [Formula: see text]O₂max when expressed as [Formula: see text]_aero or [Formula: see text]_aero in both sexes. When plotted as a function of running speed, [Formula: see text]_aero displayed a stepwise decrease (F = 11.59, p < 0.001) whereas [Formula: see text]_aero exhibited a curvilinear response (F = 4.74, p = 0.015). Differences were also evident in the slopes plotted for %[Formula: see text]O₂max and %[Formula: see text]_aeromax against running speed (F = 5.38, p = 0.021).

Quantifying aerobic determinants of performance in units of [Formula: see text]_aero provides no greater validity compared to [Formula: see text]_aero-based measurement. Although both [Formula: see text]_aero and [Formula: see text]_aero are sensitive to changes in speed, [Formula: see text]_aero provides the more valid reflection of the underlying metabolic cost of running. Physiologists should also be aware of the potential differences between expression of aerobic running intensity based upon %[Formula: see text]O₂max compared to %[Formula: see text]_aeromax_.