VVO2max versus Vpeak, what is the best predictor of running performances in middle-aged recreationally-trained runners?

Abstract

Summary Objective The present study aimed to compare maximal aerobic speed (MAS) determined by vVO 2max and peak velocity ( V peak ) as well as their time limits ( t lim ) in middle-aged recreationally-trained runners. The relationships between MAS and t lim with 10- and 15-km running performances were analyzed. Equipment and methods Twenty-one middle-aged recreationally-trained runners with VO 2max of 54.0 ± 7.6 mL·kg −1 ·min −1 took part in the present study. Participants were randomly submitted to two incremental continuous treadmill tests conducted in laboratory environment to determine vVO 2max and V peak . After that, it was performed two tests which aimed to determine t lim at vVO 2max and V peak . Participants also run 10 km and 15 km in a 400 m track. Results Results demonstrated that vVO 2max (15.5 ± 1.7 km·h −1 ) was significantly higher ( P = 0.033) than V peak (15.2 ± 1.4 km·h −1 ). It was also observed statistical differences ( P = 0.023) between t lim at vVO 2max (5.4 ± 2.1 min) and t lim at V peak (6.3 ± 1.4 min). Correlations between V peak and performances were higher than correlations between vVO 2max and the same performances (10-km- r = 0.77 vs 0.65 [ P r = 0.75 vs 0.64 [ P t lim at V peak presented correlation with 10- and 15-km, not observed between t lim at vVO 2max and performances ( V peak - r = −0.44 and −0.45 [ P 2max - r = −0.21 and −0.20 [ P > 0.05]). V peak and its t lim showed to be better predictors of endurance performance of middle-aged recreationally-trained runners.