Is Maximal Lactate Accumulation Rate Promising for Improving 5000-m Prediction in Running?

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Human Performance

Background:

• Endurance running performance is typically predicted using maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O₂max), fractional oxygen uptake (%V̇O₂max), and running economy at lactate threshold (RE_OBLA).
• The role of maximal lactate accumulation rate (ċLa_max) in enhancing these predictions remains less understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of maximal lactate accumulation rate (ċLa_max) in improving the prediction of 5000-m running performance in trained athletes.
• To investigate the relationship between ċLa_max, V̇O₂max, and the 'finishing kick' in competitive runners.

Main Methods:

• Forty-four competitive runners and triathletes underwent incremental step tests, sprint tests, and ramp tests to establish their metabolic profiles.
• Stepwise linear regression analysis was employed to predict 5000-m time trial performance, incorporating ċLa_max into established models.
• Split times were analyzed to assess the 'finishing kick' during the 5000-m time trial.

Main Results:

• Maximal lactate accumulation rate (ċLa_max) explained an additional 4.4% of the variance in 5000-m performance prediction when augmenting existing models for a mixed-sex group.
• Females exhibited lower V̇O₂max, ċLa_max, 'finishing kick', and RE_OBLA compared to males.
• ċLa_max showed significant correlations with %V̇O₂max (r=-0.439, p=0.003) and the 'finishing kick' (r=0.389, p=0.010).

Conclusions:

• Maximal lactate accumulation rate (ċLa_max) offers a minor but significant improvement in predicting 5000-m running performance in mixed-sex groups.
• The predictive value of ċLa_max may differ in middle-distance events and warrants further investigation.
• The correlation between ċLa_max and the 'finishing kick' suggests a potential link to individual pacing strategies that requires future research.