Methodological approach for determining optimal active warm-up intensity: predictive equations

Abstract

Purpose To provide predictive models for determining optimal active warm-up (WU) intensity and its effects on subsequent performance. Methods Two experiments were conducted in two countries. In both, the methodological approach was based on a free field warm-up (FWU) with duration, intensity, and intermediary pause, self-selected by the athletes. The FWU was subsequently replicated in the laboratory and referred to as the reference warm-up (RWU). Two other warm-up intensities were designed from RWU by increasing RWU intensity by 10% (RWU + 10%) and decreasing RWU intensity by 10% (RWU − 10%). Their effects were assessed on time limit ( Tlim) of maximal cycling. Nine athletes participated in the first experiment and 20 in the second. Results RWU located at 62 ± 10% maximal power ( P max) was found to be optimal and induced an oxygen uptake corresponding to 75.6 ± 10.4% V ˙ O 2max and a heart rate (HR) of 78 ± 7% HR max. Performance was related to warm-up intensity by two linear regressions and as follows: y ( T lim ( s ) ) = 1.8 x + 324.8 when x ≤ 62 ± 10 % P max y ( T lim ( s ) ) = − 14.9 x + 1364 when x ≥ 62 ± 10 % P max Conclusion It is possible to use predictive mathematical models for determining the effects of active WU on subsequent performance.