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Excerpt
Previous studies have shown the physiological variables that most influence distance running performance are maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max), lactate threshold (LT), and running economy (RE). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine LT, VO2max, and RE to determine which best predicted 4.8 km running performance in trained females. Fifteen women from the SDSU cross-country team were recruited for the study. Their mean (±SD) age, % fat, and VO2max were 20.1 ± 3.6, 18.9 ± 4.4, and 58.1 ± 7.5, respectively. Each subject performed a graded treadmill test to exhaustion. Following a brief warm-up, five-minute stages at 9.6, 11.3, 12.9, 14.5, and 16.8 km/hr were completed. VO2 was determined during each minute and capillary blood samples were collected immediately following each stage and analyzed for lactic acid. Additionally, each subject performed a timed 4.8 km run on an outdoor level track under the supervision of the investigators and coaches. Based on previous times and heart rate data collected at the end of the run, we believe that each subject gave a maximal effort. Results showed that VO2max (r=0.66) and LT (r=0.89) were significantly correlated with velocity during the 4.8 km run. However, RE (r=−0.24) in this group was not significantly correlated with running velocity. Additionally, a test to determine differences between correlations revealed that LT was more highly correlated (p<0.05) with running velocity than was VO2max. In conclusion, the data from this study suggest that in highly trained female distance runners, LT provides the best predictor of performance.
