The Self-Paced Submaximal Run Test: Associations With the Graded Exercise Test and Reliability

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Cardiovascular Health

Background:

• Aerobic fitness is crucial for endurance athletes.
• Monitoring aerobic fitness aids in optimizing training.
• Submaximal tests offer a time-efficient alternative to maximal tests.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reliability and construct validity of a self-paced, submaximal run test (SRTRPE).
• To assess the SRTRPE's ability to monitor aerobic fitness parameters.
• To determine if the SRTRPE can track responses to endurance training.

Main Methods:

• Forty trained endurance runners participated.
• Participants underwent a graded exercise test for VO2max and lactate thresholds.
• The SRTRPE involved three 3-minute stages at RPEs of 10, 13, and 17, monitoring velocity, heart rate, and blood lactate.
• Test-retest reliability was assessed in a subset of participants.

Main Results:

• Strong correlations were found between SRTRPE velocity at RPE 17 and VO2max, vVO2max, and vLT2 (r > .60).
• Intraclass correlation coefficients for velocity and heart rate parameters were moderate to high (ICC range .64-.92).
• Coefficients of variation ranged from 2.5% to 5.6%, with RPE 17 showing the highest reliability.

Conclusions:

• The SRTRPE is a valid and reliable test for monitoring aerobic fitness.
• The SRTRPE can effectively monitor parameters related to endurance training.
• This submaximal test is a time-efficient option for assessing aerobic responses.