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

Endurance running performance can be predicted by maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O₂max), the fractional utilisation of oxygen uptake (%V̇O₂max) and running economy at lactate threshold (RE_OBLA). This study aims to assess maximal lactate accumulation rate (ċLa_max) in terms of improving running performance prediction in trained athletes. Forty-four competitive female and male runners/triathletes performed an incremental step test, a 100-m sprint test and a ramp test to determine their metabolic profile. Stepwise linear regression was used to predict 5000-m time trial performance. Split times were recorded every 200-m to examine the 'finishing kick'. Females had a slower t_5k and a lower V̇O₂max, ċLa_max, 'finishing kick' and RE_OBLA. Augmenting Joyner's model by means of ċLa_max explained an additional 4.4% of variance in performance. When performing the same analysis exclusively for males, ċLa_max was not included. ċLa_max significantly correlated with %V̇O₂max (r=-0.439, p=0.003) and the 'finishing kick' (r=0.389, p=0.010). ċLa_max allows for significant (yet minor) improvements in 5000-m performance prediction in a mixed-sex group. This margin of improvement might differ in middle-distance events. Due to the relationship to the 'finishing kick', ċLa_max might be related to individual pacing strategies, which should be assessed in future research.