Estimating and Tracking Changes in VO2max From a Field-Based Critical Velocity Test in Collegiate Soccer Players.

Abstract

Maximal oxygen consumption (VO 2 max) has been shown to be a significant predictor of performance in soccer players. Laboratory-based determination of VO 2 max is time consuming and consequently not often used as an evaluation tool in collegiate soccer teams. The critical velocity (CV) test is a unique measure, requiring less time than individual graded exercise tests for VO 2 max, and can offer analysis of anaerobic capacity, doubling its utility. Purpose: To examine a field-based CV test as a predictor of VO 2 max in male collegiate soccer players, and to determine if a prediction equation using CV could accurately track changes in VO 2 max following a 6 week off-season training intervention. Methods: Twelve male [mean ± SD, age (yr): 19.5±1.2; height (cm): 175.9±7.4; weight (kg): 71.7±10.1] collegiate soccer players were recruited to participate in this study. Players completed a maximal graded running test to exhaustion to determine VO 2 max. On a separate day, players completed three time-trials at various distances (1200m, 2400m, 3200m) on an outdoor track for the determination of CV and anaerobic running capacity (ARC). Results: A negative, but non-significant correlation was found between ARC and relative VO 2 max (r=-0.545, p=0.067). A positive correlation was observed between CV and relative VO 2 max (r=0.849, p<0.001). Based on the significant correlation analysis, two linear regression equations were developed to predict and track relative VO 2 max from CV. Conclusions: The proposed field-based method of predicting VO 2 max is a time-efficient way to predict and track maximal oxygen consumption in male soccer players.