3-minute All-out Test Research Articles

Applications of the 3-Min All-Out Exercise Test for Prescribing High-Intensity Interval Training: A Narrative Review on a Decade of Research Progress

ABSTRACT The 3-minute all-out exercise test (3MT) was developed over a decade ago and enables the estimation of time for onset of momentary fatigue for a given speed or power output exceeding critical speed (CS) or critical power (CP), respectively. The 3MT has been validated for conducting high-intensity interval training, used with load carriage prediction and prescription, and validated for shuttle running. These prescriptions are novel because they allow for standardizing exercise intensities relative to metabolic parameters as opposed to a percentage of a given maximum or reserve. Research was identified using leading search engines (e.g., PubMed, Google Scholar, and Research Gate) and citations to similar articles. The objective of this review article was to summarize research that emerged on the CS/CP concept with emphasis on applications since the advent of the 3MT. The review concludes with application of the CS/CP concept to the frequency, intensity, time, and type of exercise for exercise prescription.

THE PHYSIOLOGICAL VALIDITY OF CRITICAL SPEED DERIVED FROM A 3-MINUTE ALL-OUT SWIM TEST

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS The boundary between heavy and severe exercise domains is one of the most consistent predictors of swimming performance. The gold standard approach to assessing this physiological threshold (numerous 30-minute constant-load trials) is complex and time-consuming, leading practitioners to explore other methodologies, which has left coaches questioning the validity of testing outcomes and reducing testing implementation. The recent proposal of a modified 3-minute all-out swim test has produced reliable estimates of critical speed (CS), however the estimates have not been validated against physiological measures. The aim of this study was to establish the physiological validity of CS derived from the modified 3-minute all-out swim test in elite swimmers. METHODS 16 elite swimmers completed a 3-minute test consisting of 12 maximal 25-m efforts separated by 5s of rest. CS was calculated as the average speed of the slowest two 25-m efforts from the last four completed. To identify MLSS, swimmers completed a 30-minute trial broken into 6 x 5-minute intervals. Blood lactate concentration collected at each interval determined the subsequent interval speed. Over two additional visits, participants completed a 30-minute constant speed trial – at 2% above and 2% below CS to determine the physiology surrounding CS. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare CS and MLSS and determine their association, and to compare physiological measures within the two constant load trials. RESULTS MLSS and CS were not statistically different (p>0.05) and had a strong positive correlation (r=0.98). A physiological steady state was verified in the below CS trial (p>0.05). A physiological steady state was not obtained in the above CS trial (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest the modified 3-minute all-out swim test as a valid methodology to assess the CS of elite swimmers. Implementation of this methodology could enable critical insight into how athletes are adapting to training and contribute significantly to swimming talent identification.

Reliability and Validity of Predicted Performance in the Severe-Intensity Domain From the 3-Minute All-Out Running Test.

The aim of this study was to analyze the reliability and validity of the predicted distance-time relationship in the severe-intensity domain from a 3-minute all-out running test (3MT). Twelve runners performed two 3MTs (test #1 and test #2) on an outdoor 400-m track after familiarization. Eighteen-hertz Global Positioning System data were used to estimate critical speed (CS) and distance covered above CS (D'). Time to cover 1200 and 3600m (T1200 and T3600, respectively) was predicted using CS and D' estimates from each 3MT. Eight runners performed 2 time trials in a single visit to assess real T1200 and T3600. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and standard errors of measurement were calculated for reliability analysis. Good to excellent reliability was found for CS, T1200, and T3600 estimates from 3MT (ICC > .95, standard error of measurement between 1.3% and 2.2%), and poor reliability was found for D' (ICC = .55, standard error of measurement = 27%). Predictions from 3MT were significantly correlated to actual T1200 (r = .87 and .85 for test #1 and test #2, respectively) and T3600 (r = .91 and .82 for test #1 and test #2, respectively). The calculation of error prediction showed a systematic error between predicted and real T3600 (6.4% and 7.8% for test #1 and test #2, respectively, P < .01) contrary to T1200 (P > .1). Random error was between 4.4% and 6.1% for both distances. Despite low reliability of D', 3MT yielded a reliable predicted distance-time relationship allowing repeated measures to evidence change with training adaptation. However, caution should be taken with prediction of performance potential of a single individual because of substantial random error and significant underestimation of T3600.

Physiological Profiles of Male and Female CrossFit Athletes.

To (1)establish extensive physiological profiles of highly trained CrossFit® athletes using gold-standard tests and (2)investigate which physiological markers best correlate with CrossFit Open performance. This study encompassed 60 participants (30 men and 30 women), all within the top 5% of the CrossFit Open, including 7 CrossFit semifinalists and 3 CrossFit Games finalists. Isokinetic dynamometers were employed to measure maximum isometric and isokinetic leg and trunk strength. Countermovement-jump height and maximum isometric midthigh-pull strength were assessed on a force plate. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak)was measured by a cardiopulmonary exercise test, and critical power and W' were evaluated during a 3-minute all-out test, both on a cycle ergometer. Male and female athletes' median (interquartile range) VO2peak was 4.64 (4.43, 4.80) and 3.21 (3.10, 3.29) L·min-1, critical power 314.5 (285.9, 343.6) and 221.3 (200.9, 238.9) W, and midthigh pull 3158 (2690, 3462) and 2035 (1728, 2347) N. Linear-regression analysis showed strong evidence for associations between different anthropometric variables and CrossFit Open performance in men and women, whereas for markers of cardiorespiratory fitness such as VO2peak, this was only true for women but not men. Conventional laboratory evaluations of strength, however, manifested minimal evidence for associations with CrossFit Open performance across both sexes. This study provides the first detailed insights into the physiology of high-performing CrossFit athletes and informs training optimization. Furthermore, the results emphasize the advantage of athletes with shorter limbs and suggest potential modifications to CrossFit Open workout designs to level the playing field for athletes across different anthropometric characteristics.

Stance Time and Impact Loading Rates are Significant Predictors of Critical Speed During a 3-Minute All-Out Running Test

Stance Time and Impact Loading Rates are Significant Predictors of Critical Speed During a 3-Minute All-Out Running Test

The Effects of a 90-km Outdoor Cycling Ride on Performance Outcomes Derived From Ramp-Incremental and 3-Minute All-Out Tests.

Bitel, M, Keir, DA, Grossman, K, Barnes, M, Murias, JM, and Belfry, GR. The effects of a 90-km outdoor cycling ride on performance outcomes derived from ramp-incremental and 3-minute all-out tests. J Strength Cond Res 38(3): 540-548, 2024-The purpose of this study was to determine whether laboratory-derived exercise intensity and performance demarcations are altered after prolonged outdoor cycling. Male recreational cyclists ( n = 10; RIDE) performed an exhaustive ramp-incremental test (RAMP) and a 3-minute all-out test (3MT) on a cycle ergometer before and after a 90-km cycling ride. RAMP-derived maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O 2max ), gas exchange threshold (GET), respiratory compensation point (RCP), and associated power output (PO), as well as 3MT-derived critical power (CP) and work performed above CP, were compared before and after ∼3 hours of outdoor cycling. Six active men served as "no-exercise" healthy controls (CON), who, instead, rested for 3 hours between repeated RAMP and 3MT tests. During the 90-km ride, the duration within the moderate-intensity, heavy-intensity, and severe-intensity domains was 59 ± 24%, 40 ± 24%, and 1 ± 1%, respectively. Compared with pre-90 km, post-RAMP exhibited reductions in (a) V̇O 2max (4.04 ± 0.48 vs. 3.80 ± 0.38 L·min -1 ; p = 0.026) and associated PO (392 ± 30 W vs. 357 ± 26 W; p = 0.002); (b) the V̇O 2 and PO at RCP (3.49 ± 0.46 vs. 3.34 ± 0.43 L·min -1 ; p = 0.040 and 312 ± 40 W vs. 292 ± 24 W; p = 0.023); and (c) the PO (214 ± 32 W vs. 198 ± 25 W; p = 0.027), but not the V̇O 2 at GET (2.52 ± 0.44 vs. 2.44 ± 0.38 L·min -1 ; p = 0.388). Pre-90 km vs. post-90 km 3MT variables showed reduced W' (9.8 ± 3.4 vs. 6.8 ± 2.6 kJ; p = 0.002) and unchanged CP (304 ± 26 W and 297 ± 34 W; p = 0.275). In the CON group, there were no differences in V̇O 2max , GET, RCP, W', CP, or associated power outputs ( p > 0.05) pre-to-post 3 hours of rest. The preservation of critical power demonstrates that longer-duration maximal efforts may be sustained after long-duration cycle. However, shorter sprints and higher-intensity efforts eliciting V̇O 2max will exhibit decreased PO after 3 hours of a predominantly moderate-intensity cycle.

A comparative analysis of two novel shuttle running field tests for critical velocity modelling in football players

Background and aim: The study compared differences in derived critical velocity (CV) and maximal speed from the 3-Minute All-Out Shuttle Test (3MST), 7-Minute Intermittent Critical Velocity Shuttle Test (7MST) and 3-Minute All-Out Running Test (3MRT). We also determined test-retest reliability of the 3MST versus the 7MST. Methods: Eleven semi-professional football players completed 10 visits; 3 familiarisation and 7 testing sessions (3 trials for each of the 3MST and 7MST and 1 trial of the 3MRT). CV was calculated, and maximal speed was recorded via GPS. Results: CV via the 3MRT (14.17 ± 1.49 km.h-1) was faster than the 3MST (10.12 ± 0.97 km.h-1, p &lt; 0.001) and 7MST (9.03 ± 0.97 km.h-1, p &lt; 0.001), although minimal differences were observed between the 3MST and 7MST (p = 0.13). Maximal speed differed across all test modes; 3MRT (29.07 ± 2.19 km.h-1, p &lt; 0.001), 3MST (26.18 ± 1.71 km.h-1, p &lt; 0.001) and 7MST (23.14 ± 1.10 km.h-1, p &lt; 0.001). Intra-class correlation coefficient was larger for the 3MST (0.37) than the 7MST (0.05). Coefficient of variation was smaller for the 3MST (7.57%) compared to the 7MST (11.56%). Conclusions: Shuttle tests derive significantly slower CV and maximal speeds compared to linear tests and thus likely provide greater task specificity for CV modelling of team-sport athletes.

Application of the Force-velocity-power Concept to the 3-min all-out Running Test.

Force-velocity-power (FVP) profiling offers insights related to key factors that may enhance or hinder sprinting performances. Whether the same FVP principles could be applied to the sprinting portion of the 3-minute all-out test for running (3MT) has not been previously investigated. Twenty moderately trained participants volunteered for the study (age: 24.75 ± 3.58 yrs; height: 1.69±0.11 m; mass: 73.74±12.26 kg). After familiarization of all testing procedures, participants completed: (i) a 40-m all-out sprint test, and (ii) a 3MT. Theoretical maximal force and power, but not velocity, were significantly higher for the 40-m sprint test. Most FVP variables from the two tests were weakly to moderately correlated, with the exception of maximal velocity. Finally, maximal velocity and relative peak power were predictive of D', explaining approximately 51% of the variance in D'. Although similar maximal velocities are attained during both the 40-m sprint and the 3MT, the underlying mechanisms are markedly different. The FVP parameters obtained from either test are likely not interchangeable but do provide valuable insights regarding the potential mechanisms by which D' may be improved.

Monitoring the Heart Rate Variability Responses to Training Loads in Competitive Swimmers Using a Smartphone Application and the Banister Impulse-Response Model.

First, to examine whether heart rate variability (HRV) responses can be modeled effectively via the Banister impulse-response model when the session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) alone, and in combination with subjective well-being measures, are utilized. Second, to describe seasonal HRV responses and their associations with changes in critical speed (CS) in competitive swimmers. A total of 10 highly trained swimmers collected daily 1-minute HRV recordings, sRPE training load, and subjective well-being scores via a novel smartphone application for 15 weeks. The impulse-response model was used to describe chronic root mean square of the successive differences (rMSSD) responses to training, with sRPE and subjective well-being measures used as systems inputs. Changes in CS were obtained from a 3-minute all-out test completed in weeks 1 and 14. The level of agreement between predicted and actual HRV data was R2 = .66 (.25) when sRPE alone was used. Model fits improved in the range of 4% to 21% when different subjective well-being measures were combined with sRPE, representing trivial-to-moderate improvements. There were no significant differences in weekly group averages of log-transformed (Ln) rMSSD (P = .34) or HRV coefficient of variation of Ln rMSSD (P = .12); however, small-to-large changes (d = 0.21-1.46) were observed in these parameters throughout the season. Large correlations were observed between seasonal changes in HRV measures and CS (changes in averages of Ln rMSSD: r = .51, P = .13; changes in coefficient of variation of Ln rMSSD: r = -.68, P = .03). The impulse-response model and data collected via a novel smartphone application can be used to model HRV responses to swimming training and nontraining-related stressors. Large relationships between seasonal changes in measured HRV parameters and CS provide further evidence for incorporating a HRV-guided training approach.

Increased velocity at VO2max and load carriage performance in army ROTC cadets: prescription using the critical velocity concept

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of using the critical velocity (CV) concept to prescribe two separate high-intensity interval training (HIT) exercise programs aimed at enhancing CV and load carriage performance. 20 young adult participants (male = 15, female = 5) underwent a 4-week training period where they exercised 2 dwk−1. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups: (1) HIT or (2) Load Carriage-HIT (LCHIT). Pre- and post-training assessments included running 3-minute All-Out Test (3MT) to determine critical velocity (CV) and distance prime (D′) and two load carriage tasks (400 and 3200 m). There were significant increases in CV (p = 0.005) and velocity at V˙ O2max (v V˙ O2max) (p = 0.037) among the sample but not between training groups. Improvements were observed in 3200 m load carriage performance time (p < 0.001) with a 9.8 and 5.4% decrease in the LCHIT and HIT groups, respectively. Practitioner summary: Critical velocity has shown efficacy as a marker for performance in tactical populations. With the addition of load carriage, there is a reduction in the individual’s CV. The CV-concept-prescribed exercises (HIT and LCHIT) 2 days per week for 4 weeks showed improvements in CV, v V˙ O2max and load carriage performance. The use of the CV concept provides a method to prescribe HIT to increase running and load carriage performances in tactical populations.

Predicting Maximal Oxygen Uptake Using the 3-Minute All-Out Test in High-Intensity Functional Training Athletes.

Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and critical speed (CS) are key fatigue-related measurements that demonstrate a relationship to one another and are indicative of athletic endurance performance. This is especially true for those that participate in competitive fitness events. However, the accessibility to a metabolic analyzer to accurately measure VO2max is expensive and time intensive, whereas CS may be measured in the field using a 3 min all-out test (3MT). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between VO2max and CS in high-intensity functional training (HIFT) athletes. Twenty-five male and female (age: 27.6 ± 4.5 years; height: 174.5 ± 18.3 cm; weight: 77.4 ± 14.8 kg; body fat: 15.7 ± 6.5%) HIFT athletes performed a 3MT as well as a graded exercise test with 48 h between measurements. True VO2max was determined using a square-wave supramaximal verification phase and CS was measured as the average speed of the last 30 s of the 3MT. A statistically significant and positive correlation was observed between relative VO2max and CS values (r = 0.819, p < 0.001). Based on the significant correlation, a linear regression analysis was completed, including sex, in order to develop a VO2max prediction equation (VO2max (mL/kg/min) = 8.449(CS) + 4.387(F = 0, M = 1) + 14.683; standard error of the estimate = 3.34 mL/kg/min). Observed (47.71 ± 6.54 mL/kg/min) and predicted (47.71 ± 5.7 mL/kg/min) VO2max values were compared using a dependent t-test and no significant difference was displayed between the observed and predicted values (p = 1.000). The typical error, coefficient of variation, and intraclass correlation coefficient were 2.26 mL/kg/min, 4.90%, and 0.864, respectively. The positive and significant relationship between VO2max and CS suggests that the 3MT may be a practical alternative to predicting maximal oxygen uptake when time and access to a metabolic analyzer is limited.

Demarcating Exercise Intensity Domains in Freestyle Swimming: Is There an Alternative to Incremental Step Test and Beats Below HRmax Method?

Piatrikova, E, Sousa, AC, Willsmer, NJ, Gonzalez, JT, and Williams, S. Demarcating exercise intensity domains in freestyle swimming: is there an alternative to incremental step test and beats below HRmax method? J Strength Cond Res 34(9): 2575-2584, 2020-Critical power derived from the 3-minute all-out test (3MT) was recently used to estimate the exercise intensity boundaries in competitive cyclists. Considering that physiological testing is challenging in swimming, the purpose of this study was to examine whether critical speed (CS) derived from the 3MT could be used for the same purpose in swimming. The second aim was to assess the accuracy of the 50-40 and 30-20 beats below the maximal (BBM) heart rate method, currently used by swimming coaches to demarcate boundaries between moderate-heavy and heavy-severe exercise, respectively. Thirteen swimmers completed an incremental step test (IST) and 3MT in freestyle to establish speeds at: lactate threshold (LT), lactate turnpoint (LTP), maximum aerobic speed (Smax), and CS. Using linear regression through origin, speeds at LT, LTP, and Smax were predicted at 89, 98, and 104% of CS derived from the 3MT, respectively. There were no significant differences between threshold speeds derived from the IST and 3MT (p > 0.05), and nearly perfect correlations at LT (1.21 ± 0.06; 1.21 ± 0.06 m·s; r = 0.92) and LTP (1.33 ± 0.07; 1.33 ± 0.07 m·s; r = 0.90), and very large correlations at Smax (1.40 ± 0.06; 1.40 ± 0.07 m·s; r = 0.88; all p < 0.0001). Speeds estimated at 50 (1.11 ± 0.08 m·s) and 40 BBM (1.17 ± 0.07 m·s) were lower compared with LT, and speeds estimated at 30 (1.23 ± 0.07 m·s) and 20 BBM (1.29 ± 0.07 m·s) were lower compared with LTP and CS (all p < 0.02). The 3MT can therefore be used as an alternative to the IST to estimate exercise intensity boundaries, in practical settings where resources or time might be limited. However, the BBM significantly underestimates speeds at LT, LTP, and CS.

A Different Perspective of the 3-Minute All-Out Exercise Test.

A Different Perspective of the 3-Minute All-Out Exercise Test.

Validation of the 3-Minute All-Out Exercise Test for Shuttle Running Prescription.

Saari, A, Dicks, ND, Hartman, ME, and Pettitt, RW. Validation of the 3-minute all-out exercise test for shuttle running prescription. J Strength Cond Res 33(6): 1679-1685, 2019-A 3-minute all-out exercise test (3 MT) for running has been developed to determine critical speed (CS) and finite capacity for running speeds > CS (D') which allow for the prediction of time limits (TLIMs) associated with running different distances. Most team sports require shuttle running; however, the 3 MT was validated for uninterrupted, track running and not shuttle running. The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of shuttle running 3 MT to determine CS and D'. A total of 12 subjects were tested using a baseline 3 MT along with 3 separate distance time trials of all-out shuttle running to determine true CS and D'. The 3 MT (2.94 ± 0.39 m·s) and the true CS (3.00 ± 0.36 m·s) for shuttle running did not differ (p = 0.71) and had a coefficient of variation (CV) of 7.7%. Conversely, D' from the 3 MT exceeded true D' by 42 m (p = 0.04, CV = 36%). The TLIMs estimated for the 3 different distances were within ∼2-6% (p = 0.60). Based on these outcomes, the shuttle run 3 MT may offer a suitable method for prescribing shuttle running interval training.

Physiological Performance Measures as Indicators of CrossFit® Performance.

CrossFit® began as another exercise program to improve physical fitness and has rapidly grown into the “sport of fitness”. However, little is understood as to the physiological indicators that determine CrossFit® sport performance. The purpose of this study was to determine which physiological performance measure was the greatest indicator of CrossFit® workout performance. Male (n = 12) and female (n = 5) participants successfully completed a treadmill graded exercise test to measure maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), a 3-minute all-out running test (3MT) to determine critical speed (CS) and the finite capacity for running speeds above CS (D′), a Wingate anaerobic test (WAnT) to assess anaerobic peak and mean power, the CrossFit® total to measure total body strength, as well as the CrossFit® benchmark workouts: Fran, Grace, and Nancy. It was hypothesized that CS and total body strength would be the greatest indicators of CrossFit® performance. Pearson’s r correlations were used to determine the relationship of benchmark performance data and the physiological performance measures. For each benchmark-dependent variable, a stepwise linear regression was created using significant correlative data. For the workout Fran, back squat strength explained 42% of the variance. VO2max explained 68% of the variance for the workout Nancy. Lastly, anaerobic peak power explained 57% of the variance for performance on the CrossFit® total. In conclusion, results demonstrated select physiological performance variables may be used to predict CrossFit® workout performance.

Methodological Approaches and Related Challenges Associated With the Determination of Critical Power and Curvature Constant.

Muniz-Pumares, D, Karsten, B, Triska, C, and Glaister, M. Methodological approaches and related challenges associated with the determination of critical power and W'. J Strength Cond Res 33(2): 584-596, 2019-The relationship between exercise intensity and time to task failure (P-T relationship) is hyperbolic, and characterized by its asymptote (critical power [CP]) and curvature constant (W'). The determination of these parameters is of interest for researchers and practitioners, but the testing protocol for CP and W' determination has not yet been standardized. Conventionally, a series of constant work rate (CWR) tests to task failure have been used to construct the P-T relationship. However, the duration, number, and recovery between predictive CWR and the mathematical model (hyperbolic or derived linear models) are known to affect CP and W'. Moreover, repeating CWR may be deemed as a cumbersome and impractical protocol. Recently, CP and W' have been determined in field and laboratory settings using time trials, but the validity of these methods has raised concerns. Alternatively, a 3-minute all-out test (3MT) has been suggested, as it provides a simpler method for the determination of CP and W', whereby power output at the end of the test represents CP, and the amount of work performed above this end-test power equates to W'. However, the 3MT still requires an initial incremental test and may overestimate CP. The aim of this review is, therefore, to appraise current methods to estimate CP and W', providing guidelines and suggestions for future research where appropriate.

Distinct Effects of Repeated-Sprint Training in Normobaric Hypoxia and β-Alanine Supplementation

Objective: The present study evaluated the effects of repeated-sprint training in normobaric hypoxia and β-alanine supplementation (BA) on aerobic and anaerobic performance in recreationally active men.Methods: Participants were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: normoxia/β-alanine (NB, n = 11), normoxia/placebo (NP, n = 8), normobaric hypoxia/β-alanine (HB, n = 10) and normobaric hypoxia/placebo (HP, n = 9). All participants completed 8 training sessions over 4 weeks on a cycle ergometer either in normobaric hypoxia (oxygen fraction: FiO2 = 14.2%) or normoxia (FiO2 = 20.9%). Participants were instructed to consume a daily dosage of 6.4 g of BA or placebo. Changes in performance in a graded exercise test, repeated-sprint test (RST), and 3-minute all-out test (3MT) were examined before and after training and supplementation.Results: No between-group differences were observed for training volume or supplementation compliance. Anthropometric and hematological measures remained unchanged before and after intervention in all groups. A main effect of training condition was shown for oxygen consumption and power output at respiratory compensation point, average power output during the last sprint of the RST, heart rate recovery following the RST, and total work during the 3MT. These measures in the normobaric hypoxia groups were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the normoxia groups, except for the heart rate recovery following the RST. A main effect of supplement was detected in anaerobic working capacity, with postintervention values in the BA groups being significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the placebo groups.Conclusions: Repeated-sprint training in hypoxia improved aerobic performance, exercise tolerance, cardiovascular recovery, and overall working capacity, while BA maintained the anaerobic working capacity. However, BA did not provide additional benefits with respect to attenuating fatigue or enhancing repeated-sprint performance.

Validity and Reliability of the 3-Minute All-Out Test in National and International Competitive Swimmers.

To assess the concurrent and predictive validity of the 3-minute all-out test (3MT) against conventional methods (CM) of determining critical speed (CS) and curvature constant (D') and to examine the test-retest reliability of the 3MT in highly trained swimmers. Thirteen highly trained swimmers (age 16 [2]y, weight 64.7 [8.5]kg, height 1.76 [0.07]m) completed 4 time trials and two 3MTs over 2 wk. The distance-time (DT) and speed-1/time (1/T) models were used to determine CS and D' from 4 time trials. CS3MT and [Formula: see text] were determined as the mean speed in the final 30 s of 3MT and as the speed-time integral above CS, respectively. CS3MT (1.33 [0.06]m·s-1) did not differ from CSCM (1.33 [0.06]m·s-1, P > .05) and correlated nearly perfectly with CSCM (r = .95, P < .0001). [Formula: see text] (19.50 [3.52]m) was lower than [Formula: see text] (23.30 [6.24]m, P < .05) and [Formula: see text] (22.15 [5.75]m, P = .09). Correlations between [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] were very large (r = .79, P = .002). CS and D' between the two 3MT trials were not different (CS mean change = -0.009m·s-1, P = .102; D' mean change = 0.82 m, P = .221). Correlations between the two 3MT trials were nearly perfect and very large for CS (r = .97) and D' (r = .87, P < .05), respectively, with coefficients of variation of 0.9% for CS and 9.1% for D'. The 3MT is a valid protocol for estimation of CS and produces high test-retest reliability for CS and D' in highly trained swimmers.

The 3-minute all-out cycling test is sensitive to changes in cadence using the Lode Excalibur Sport ergometer

ABSTRACTThis study investigated the effect cadence has on the estimation of critical power (CP) and the finite work capacity (Wʹ) during the 3-minute all-out cycling test. Ten participants completed 8 tests: 1) an incremental test to calculate gas exchange threshold (GET), maximal aerobic power (MAP) and peak oxygen uptake (V̇O2peak), 2–4) three time-to-exhaustion tests at 80, 100 and 105% MAP to calculate CP and Wʹ, 5–7) four 3-minute all-out tests to calculate end power (EP) and work done above EP (WEP) using cadences ranging from preferred −5 to preferred +10 rev·min−1 to set the fixed resistance. Significant differences were seen between CP and EP-preferred (267.5 ± 22.6 W vs. 296.6 ± 26.1 W, P < 0.001), CP and EP−5 (267.5 ± 22.6 W vs. 303.6 ± 24.0 W, P < 0.001) and between CP and EP+5 (267.5 ± 22.6 W vs. 290.0 ± 28.0 W, P = 0.002). No significant differences were seen between CP and EP+10 (267.5 ± 22.6 W vs. 278.1 ± 30.9 W, P = 0.331). Significant differences were seen between Wʹ and WEP at all tested fixed resistances. EP is reduced when cycling at higher than preferred cadences, providing better estimates of CP.

Normative Data for Critical Speed and D' for High-Level Male Rugby Players.

Kramer, M, Clark, IE, Jamnick, N, Strom, C, and Pettitt, RW. Normative data for critical speed and D' for high-level male rugby players. J Strength Cond Res 32(3): 783-789, 2018-The critical speed (CS) concept helps characterize the aerobic and anaerobic fitness of an athlete. Rugby players should, hypothetically, have modest CS values but extremely high curvature constant (D') values, yet, normative data are currently unavailable. To develop normative data of CS and D' for high-level male rugby players, a total of 30 male rugby players were recruited from the Eastern Cape of South Africa. All subjects performed the running 3-minute all-out exercise test (3 MT) using global positioning system (GPS) technology to determine CS and D'. The GPS data were used to determine the total distance and velocities performed, and to examine for pacing effects. Summary statistics of mean ± SD are provided. High total running speeds for the initial 150 seconds (S150s = 5.79 ± 0.59 m·s), and total distance (3 MT distance = 871.5 ± 71.9 m) were observed. A total of 13 of 30 subjects surpassed the 300 m D' value (mean D' = 288.2 ± 49.1 m). The CS of the total group was 3.87 ± 0.55 m·s. All 3 MT-derived data were categorized using standard nine (stanine) tables that allowed for the generation of normative data with which future performances, performances across similar sporting domains, and more accurate contrasts across the literature can be compared. Skewing of CS and D' was observed between forwards and backs, therefore, between-group differences in neither CS nor D' were observed (p > 0.05). Comparisons with previous literature indicate that male rugby players have higher CS values than female rugby players. When compared with Olympic distance runners, male rugby players have markedly higher D' values and markedly lower CS values. The 3 MT provides a useful procedure for assessing and prescribing high-intensity interval training for rugby athletes.