PEAK RUNNING VELOCITY, SUBMAXIMAL ENERGY-EXPENDITURE, VO2MAX, AND 8 KM DISTANCE RUNNING PERFORMANCE

The purposes of this study were to examine (1) if the peak running velocity achieved during maximal treadmill testing is related to 8 km distance running performance (DRP) and (2) if the relationship between selected physiological determinants are consistent for two 8 km races within a competitive season. Seven members of a University cross-country team (mean +/- SE) (age, 19.4 +/- 0.5 years, VO2max 67.0 +/- 1.0 ml/kg/min were tested 2-3 days following a mid-season race (Race M) and the season-ending conference championship (Race C). Despite similar weather and terrain, Race C (29:22 +/- 1:22 min:sec) was significantly (p < 0.05) slower than Race M (28:31 +/- 0:58 min:sec). However, no significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed between testing sessions for calculated energy expenditure heart rate oxygen consumption and RER during submaximal running (248 and 268 m/min), postsubmaximal run lactate, peak running velocity, and VO2max. A significant correlation (p < 0.05) was observed for Race M with with calculated energy expenditure during submaximal running at both speeds (r = 0.85) and with peak running velocity (r = -0.76). Regression analysis revealed that 92% of the total variance for Race M was accounted for by calculated energy expenditure during submaximal running and VO2max. No significant correlation or regression relationship was observed for any variables with Race C. These results suggest that peak running velocity, calculated energy expenditure during submaximal running, and VO2max can be associated with 8 km running performance. However, the relationship between 8 km DRP and the variables measured can differ for two races over a competitive season.