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Testing protocol affects the velocity at VO2max in semi-professional soccer players
Andrea Riboli1,2, Giuseppe Coratella1, Susanna Rampichini1
1Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health (SCIBIS), University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
Continuous protocols overestimate velocity at maximal oxygen uptake (Vmax) in soccer players compared to discontinuous protocols. This difference is due to an overestimation in the oxygen cost of running, impacting high-intensity training recommendations.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Assessing maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and its associated velocity (Vmax) is crucial for soccer players.
- Different incremental exercise protocols may yield varying physiological results.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare three treadmill protocols for determining Vmax in soccer players.
- To evaluate differences in VO2max and oxygen cost of running across protocols.
Main Methods:
- Sixteen semi-professional soccer players underwent three maximal incremental treadmill tests.
- Protocols included two continuous (CP1, CP2) and one discontinuous (DP) method.
- Measurements included Vmax, VO2max, and oxygen cost of running.
Main Results:
- Vmax was significantly higher in continuous protocols (CP1 > CP2 > DP).
- No significant differences in VO2max were observed between protocols.
- Oxygen cost of running varied significantly between protocols (CP1 > CP2 > DP).
Conclusions:
- Continuous protocols result in a higher Vmax compared to discontinuous protocols in soccer players.
- The overestimation of Vmax in continuous protocols is linked to an increased oxygen cost of running.
- These protocol-specific differences in Vmax are important for optimizing training and performance in soccer.
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