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Vigh-Larsen JF, Junge N, Cialdella-Kam L, Tomás R, Young L, Krustrup P, Mohr M, Nybo L. Testing in Intermittent Sports-Importance for Training and Performance Optimization in Adult Athletes. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2024; 56:1505-1537. [PMID: 39004796 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Performance in intermittent sports relies on the interplay between multiple physiological systems determining the capacity to perform short explosive efforts as well as repeated intense actions with limited recovery over the course of an entire game. Testing should reflect these demands to allow for sport- and position-specific capacity analyses that eventually may translate into optimized training and improved performance. This may include individual load management and optimized training prescription, intensity targeting for specific positions or individual athletes, as well as benchmarking for monitoring of training progression and enhanced engagement of athletes. This review provides an overview of available tests in different exercise domains identified as relevant (from assessment of single explosive actions to intermittent endurance capacity), forming the basis for recommendations on how to compose a comprehensive yet feasible test battery that may be integrated into the seasonal competition and training plan. The test procedures should cover the performance spectrum of relevance for the individual athlete-also in team sports to account for positional differences. We emphasize the benefits of sport-specific tests, highlight parameters of importance for test standardization, and discuss how the applied test battery may be supplemented with secondary tests directed toward specific energy systems to allow for more in-depth analyses when required (e.g., in terms of an underperforming athlete). The synergy between testing and tracking of match performance (utilizing time-motion or global positioning systems) is highlighted, and although tracking cannot substitute for testing, combining the tools may provide a comprehensive overview of the physiological demands and performance during competition contextualized to the athletes' maximal exercise capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicklas Junge
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sport Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DENMARK
| | - Lynn Cialdella-Kam
- Warfighter Performance Department, Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA
| | - Rita Tomás
- Portugal Football School, Federação Portuguesa de Futebol Avenida das Seleções, Oeiras, PORTUGAL
| | - Laura Young
- American College of Sports Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | | | | | - Lars Nybo
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sport Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DENMARK
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Voet JG, Lamberts RP, Viribay A, de Koning JJ, van Erp T. Durability and Underlying Physiological Factors: How Do They Change Throughout a Cycling Season in Semiprofessional Cyclists? Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2024; 19:809-819. [PMID: 38871342 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate how cycling time-trial (TT) performance changes over a cycling season, both in a "fresh" state and in a "fatigued" state (durability). Additionally, the aim was to explore whether these changes are related to changes in underlying physiological factors such as gross efficiency, energy expenditure (EE), and substrate oxidation (fat oxidation [FatOx] and carbohydrate oxidation [CarbOx]). METHODS Sixteen male semiprofessional cyclists visited the laboratory on 3 occasions during a cycling season (PRE, START, and IN) and underwent a performance test in both fresh and fatigued states (after 38.1 [4.9] kJ/kg), containing a submaximal warm-up for the measurement of gross efficiency, EE, FatOx, and CarbOx and a maximal TT of 1 (TT1min) and 10 minutes (TT10min). Results were compared across states (fresh vs fatigued) and periods (PRE, START, and IN). RESULTS The average power output (PO) in TT1min decreased (P < .05) from fresh to fatigued state across all observed periods, whereas there was no change in the PO in TT10min. Over the course of the season, the PO in TT1min in the fatigued state improved more compared with the PO in TT1min in the fresh state. Furthermore, while EE did not significantly change, there was an increase in FatOx and a decrease in CarbOx toward the fatigued state. These changes diminished during the cycling season (IN), indicating a greater contribution of CarbOx in the fatigued state. CONCLUSIONS TT1min performance is more sensitive to fatigue compared with TT10min. Also, during a cycling season, durability improves more when compared with fresh maximal POs, which is also observed in the changes in substrate oxidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens G Voet
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert P Lamberts
- Division of Movement Science and Exercise Therapy (MSET), Department of Exercise, Sport and Lifestyle Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Aitor Viribay
- Physiology, Nutrition and Sport, Glut4Science, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine (IBIOMED), University of Leon, Leon, Spain
| | - Jos J de Koning
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Teun van Erp
- Division of Movement Science and Exercise Therapy (MSET), Department of Exercise, Sport and Lifestyle Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Hamilton K, Kilding AE, Plews DJ, Mildenhall MJ, Waldron M, Charoensap T, Cox TH, Brick MJ, Leigh WB, Maunder E. Durability of the moderate-to-heavy-intensity transition is related to the effects of prolonged exercise on severe-intensity performance. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024; 124:2427-2438. [PMID: 38546844 PMCID: PMC11322397 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-024-05459-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Power output at the moderate-to-heavy-intensity transition decreases during prolonged exercise, and resilience to this has been termed 'durability'. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between durability and the effect of prolonged exercise on severe-intensity performance, and explore intramuscular correlates of durability. METHODS On separate days, 13 well-trained cyclists and triathletes (V̇O2peak, 57.3 ± 4.8 mL kg-1 min-1; training volume, 12 ± 2.1 h week-1) undertook an incremental test and 5-min time trial (TT) to determine power output at the first ventilatory threshold (VT1) and severe-intensity performance, with and without 150-min of prior moderate-intensity cycling. A single resting vastus lateralis microbiopsy was obtained. RESULTS Prolonged exercise reduced power output at VT1 (211 ± 40 vs. 198 ± 39 W, ∆ -13 ± 16 W, ∆ -6 ± 7%, P = 0.013) and 5-min TT performance (333 ± 75 vs. 302 ± 63 W, ∆ -31 ± 41 W, ∆ -9 ± 10%, P = 0.017). The reduction in 5-min TT performance was significantly associated with durability of VT1 (rs = 0.719, P = 0.007). Durability of VT1 was not related to vastus lateralis carnosine content, citrate synthase activity, or complex I activity (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION These data provide the first direct support that durability of the moderate-to-heavy-intensity transition is an important performance parameter, as more durable athletes exhibited smaller reductions in 5-min TT performance following prolonged exercise. We did not find relationships between durability and vastus lateralis carnosine content, citrate synthase activity, or complex I activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Hamilton
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Andrew E Kilding
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Daniel J Plews
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Mark Waldron
- A-STEM Centre, College of Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Thanchanok Charoensap
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tobias H Cox
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Matthew J Brick
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
- Orthosports North Harbour, AUT Millennium, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Warren B Leigh
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
- Orthosports North Harbour, AUT Millennium, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ed Maunder
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
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4
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Gallo G, Faelli EL, Ruggeri P, Filipas L, Codella R, Plews DJ, Maunder E. Power output at the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition decreases in a non-linear fashion during prolonged exercise. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024; 124:2353-2364. [PMID: 38483635 PMCID: PMC11322563 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-024-05440-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aims of this study were to: (i) describe the time course of the decrease in power output at the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition during prolonged exercise; (ii) investigate the association between durability of the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition and exercise capacity; and (iii) explore physiological correlates of durability of the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition. METHODS Twelve trained cyclists (age: 40 ± 8 y, V ˙ O2peak: 52.3 ± 5.2 mL·min-1·kg-1) performed an exhaustive cycling protocol involving alternating incremental exercise tests to determine power output at the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition via the first ventilatory threshold (VT1), and 30-min bouts at 90% of the power output at the previously estimated VT1 in the rested state. The individual time course of VT1 was modelled using linear and second-order polynomial functions, and time to a 5% decrease in VT1 (Δ5%VT1) was estimated using the best-fitting model. RESULTS Power output at VT1 decreased according to a second-order polynomial function in 11 of 12 participants. Time-to-task failure (234 ± 66 min) was correlated with Δ5%VT1 (139 ± 78 min, rs = 0.676, p = 0.016), and these were strongly correlated with absolute and relative rates of fat oxidation at specific exercise intensities measured during the incremental test performed in the rested state. CONCLUSIONS These data: (i) identify a non-linear time course of decreases in the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition during prolonged exercise; (ii) support the importance of durability of the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition in prolonged exercise capacity; and (iii) suggest durability of the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition is related to fat oxidation rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Gallo
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Neuroscience, RehabilitationGenoa, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 16100, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Piero Ruggeri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Luca Filipas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrinology, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Codella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrinology, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS MultiMedica, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniel J Plews
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ed Maunder
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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Klaris MB, Cubel C, Bruun TR, Stampe D, Rørvik S, Fischer M, Bonne T, Christensen PM, Piil JF, Nybo L. Performance and Fatigue Patterns in Elite Cyclists During 6 h of Simulated Road Racing. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2024; 34:e14699. [PMID: 39011951 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Fatigue resistance is vital for success in elite road cycling, as repeated, intense efforts challenge the athletes' ability to sustain peak performance throughout prolonged races. The present study combined recurrent performance testing and physiological measures during 6 h simulated racing with laboratory testing to investigate factors influencing fatigue resistance. Twelve male national elite cyclists (25 ± 3 years; 76 ± 6 kg and VO2max of 5.2 ± 0.5 L/min) completed incremental power and maximal fat oxidation tests. Subsequently, they underwent field testing with physiological measures and fatigue responses evaluated through peak sprint power and 5 km time trial (TT) testing after 0, 2, 4, and 6 h of exercise. Peak power declined from 1362 ± 176 W in first sprint to 1271 ± 152 W after 2 h (p < 0.01) and then stabilized. In contrast, TT mean power gradually declined from 412 ± 38 W in the first TT to 384 ± 41 W in the final trial, with individual losses ranging from 2% to 14% and moderately correlated (r2 = 0.45) to accumulated exercise time above lactate threshold. High carbohydrate intake (~90 g/h) maintained blood glucose levels, but post-TT [lactate] decreased from 15.1 ± 2 mM to 7.1 ± 2.3 mM, while fat oxidation increased from 0.7 ± 0.3 g/min at 0 h to 1.1 ± 0.1 g/min after 6 h. The study identifies fatigue patterns in national elite cyclists. Peak sprint power stabilized after an initial impairment from 0 to 2 h, while TT power gradually declined over the 6 h simulated race, with increased differentiation in fatigue responses among athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus Bak Klaris
- Department for Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claes Cubel
- Department for Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tim Ravn Bruun
- Department for Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniel Stampe
- Department for Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stian Rørvik
- Department for Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mads Fischer
- Department for Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Bonne
- Department for Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter M Christensen
- Department for Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Team Danmark (Danish Elite Sports Organisation), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jacob Feder Piil
- Department for Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Nybo
- Department for Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Unhjem RJ. Changes in running economy and attainable maximal oxygen consumption in response to prolonged running: The impact of training status. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2024; 34:e14637. [PMID: 38671555 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
During prolonged running at moderate-to-high intensity, running economy (RE) deteriorates and attainable maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) decreases. Whether these changes appear similarly in trained and untrained runners exercising at the same relative intensity is not clear. We recruited 10 trained runners (TR) and 10 active adults (AA), and compared RE and attainable VO2max before and after 1 h of running at 70% of VO2max. Submaximal VO2 increased more (p = 0.019) in AA (0.20 ± 0.13 L min-1) than in TR (0.07 ± 0.05 L min-1). Attainable VO2max decreased in AA (-0.21 ± 0.15 L min-1, p = 0.002), but remained unchanged in TR (-0.05 ± 0.10 L min-1, p = 0.18). Relative intensity (i.e., VO2/attainable VO2max), increased more (p = 0.001) in AA (8.3 ± 4.4%) than in TR (2.6 ± 1.9%). These results demonstrate that the ability to resist changes in RE and VO2max following prolonged running is superior in trained versus untrained runners, when exercising at the same relative intensity.
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Dos Santos DFC, Wanner SP, de Paula RF, Zanetti GO, de Oliveira DCX, Orsatti FL, Teixeira-Coelho F. Acute alcohol ingestion decreases the work done above the end-test power during a 3-min all-out cycling exercise. Alcohol Alcohol 2024; 59:agae017. [PMID: 38529709 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agae017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alcohol ingestion influences metabolism during a subsequent exercise session, as evidenced by increased blood lactate concentration during fixed-intensity exercise. Therefore, augmented blood concentrations of alcohol may interfere with the anaerobic metabolism during high-intensity, short-duration exercise bout, thereby leading to impaired athletic performance. OBJECTIVE This study investigated whether the acute ingestion of alcohol as ethanol modulates performance parameters derived from the power-duration relationship in a 3-min all-out cycling test that allows for identifying the power output related to heavy and severe exercise intensities. METHODS Twenty-four recreationally active cyclists (16 men and 8 women) ingested a beverage containing either 0.4 g ethanol.kg-1 body mass (EtOH) or a placebo (PLA) solution. Thirty minutes following ingestion, they completed a 3-min all-out test to measure power output and determine the end-test power (EP) and the work done above EP (WEP). RESULTS Alcohol ingestion decreased WEP by 16% (EtOH: 5.6 ± 2.5 kJ vs. PLA: 6.7 ± 2.4 kJ; P = .003) but did not change EP (EtOH: 211 ± 44 W vs. PLA: 212 ± 44 W; P = .671). The alcohol-mediated effect in WEP was not influenced when controlling for participants' sex or accuracy in identifying the beverage ingested. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that alcohol ingestion impaired the anaerobic work capacity, as evidenced by the reduction in WEP during the 3-min all-out test. Moreover, the ability to exercise at an intensity above the heavy domain may be decreased after ingestion of a moderate alcohol dose.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samuel Penna Wanner
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physical Education, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Rodolfo Ferreira de Paula
- Department of Sport Sciences, Health Science Institute, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, 38025-440, MG, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Oliveira Zanetti
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physical Education, School of Physical Education, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Fabio Lera Orsatti
- Department of Sport Sciences, Health Science Institute, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, 38025-440, MG, Brazil
| | - Francisco Teixeira-Coelho
- Department of Sport Sciences, Health Science Institute, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, 38025-440, MG, Brazil
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8
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Drake JP, Finke A, Ferguson RA. Modelling human endurance: power laws vs critical power. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024; 124:507-526. [PMID: 37563307 PMCID: PMC10858092 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-023-05274-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
The power-duration relationship describes the time to exhaustion for exercise at different intensities. It is believed to be a "fundamental bioenergetic property of living systems" that this relationship is hyperbolic. Indeed, the hyperbolic (a.k.a. critical-power) model which formalises this belief is the dominant tool for describing and predicting high-intensity exercise performance, e.g. in cycling, running, rowing or swimming. However, the hyperbolic model is now the focus of a heated debate in the literature because it unrealistically represents efforts that are short (< 2 min) or long (> 15 min). We contribute to this debate by demonstrating that the power-duration relationship is more adequately represented by an alternative, power-law model. In particular, we show that the often-observed good fit of the hyperbolic model between 2 and 15 min should not be taken as proof that the power-duration relationship is hyperbolic. Rather, in this range, a hyperbolic function just happens to approximate a power law fairly well. We also prove mathematical results which suggest that the power-law model is a safer tool for pace selection than the hyperbolic model and that the former more naturally models fatigue than the latter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonah P Drake
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, School of Science, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK.
| | - Axel Finke
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, School of Science, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK
| | - Richard A Ferguson
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK
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9
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Berger NJA, Best R, Best AW, Lane AM, Millet GY, Barwood M, Marcora S, Wilson P, Bearden S. Limits of Ultra: Towards an Interdisciplinary Understanding of Ultra-Endurance Running Performance. Sports Med 2024; 54:73-93. [PMID: 37751076 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01936-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Ultra-endurance running (UER) poses extreme mental and physical challenges that present many barriers to completion, let alone performance. Despite these challenges, participation in UER events continues to increase. With the relative paucity of research into UER training and racing compared with traditional endurance running distance (e.g., marathon), it follows that there are sizable improvements still to be made in UER if the limitations of the sport are sufficiently understood. The purpose of this review is to summarise our current understanding of the major limitations in UER. We begin with an evolutionary perspective that provides the critical background for understanding how our capacities, abilities and limitations have come to be. Although we show that humans display evolutionary adaptations that may bestow an advantage for covering large distances on a daily basis, these often far exceed the levels of our ancestors, which exposes relative limitations. From that framework, we explore the physiological and psychological systems required for running UER events. In each system, the factors that limit performance are highlighted and some guidance for practitioners and future research are shared. Examined systems include thermoregulation, oxygen delivery and utilisation, running economy and biomechanics, fatigue, the digestive system, nutritional and psychological strategies. We show that minimising the cost of running, damage to lower limb tissue and muscle fatigability may become crucial in UER events. Maintaining a sustainable core body temperature is critical to performance, and an even pacing strategy, strategic heat acclimation and individually calculated hydration all contribute to sustained performance. Gastrointestinal issues affect almost every UER participant and can be due to a variety of factors. We present nutritional strategies for different event lengths and types, such as personalised and evidence-based approaches for varying types of carbohydrate, protein and fat intake in fluid or solid form, and how to avoid flavour fatigue. Psychology plays a vital role in UER performance, and we highlight the need to be able to cope with complex situations, and that specific long and short-term goal setting improves performance. Fatigue in UER is multi-factorial, both physical and mental, and the perceived effort or level of fatigue have a major impact on the ability to continue at a given pace. Understanding the complex interplay of these limitations will help prepare UER competitors for the different scenarios they are likely to face. Therefore, this review takes an interdisciplinary approach to synthesising and illuminating limitations in UER performance to assist practitioners and scientists in making informed decisions in practice and applicable research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas J A Berger
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK.
| | - Russ Best
- Centre for Sport Science and Human Performance, Wintec, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Andrew W Best
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, North Adams, MA, USA
| | - Andrew M Lane
- Faculty of Education Health and Wellbeing, University of Wolverhampton, Walsall, UK
| | - Guillaume Y Millet
- Univ Lyon, UJM Saint-Etienne, Inter-University Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint Etienne, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France
| | - Martin Barwood
- Department of Sport, Health and Nutrition, Leeds Trinity University Horsforth, Leeds, UK
| | - Samuele Marcora
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Patrick Wilson
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Shawn Bearden
- Department of Biological Sciences, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID, USA
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10
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Stevenson JD, Kilding AE, Plews DJ, Maunder E. Prolonged exercise shifts ventilatory parameters at the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024; 124:309-315. [PMID: 37495864 PMCID: PMC10786968 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-023-05285-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To quantify the effects of prolonged cycling on the rate of ventilation ([Formula: see text]), frequency of respiration (FR), and tidal volume (VT) associated with the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition. METHODS Fourteen endurance-trained cyclists and triathletes (one female) completed an assessment of the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition, determined as the first ventilatory threshold (VT1), before (PRE) and after (POST) two hours of moderate-intensity cycling. The power output, [Formula: see text], FR, and VT associated with VT1 were determined PRE and POST. RESULTS As previously reported, power output at VT1 significantly decreased by ~ 10% from PRE to POST. The [Formula: see text] associated with VT1 was unchanged from PRE to POST (72 ± 12 vs. 69 ± 13 L.min-1, ∆ - 3 ± 5 L.min-1, ∆ - 4 ± 8%, P = 0.075), and relatively consistent (within-subject coefficient of variation, 5.4% [3.7, 8.0%]). The [Formula: see text] associated with VT1 was produced with increased FR (27.6 ± 5.8 vs. 31.9 ± 6.5 breaths.min-1, ∆ 4.3 ± 3.1 breaths.min-1, ∆ 16 ± 11%, P = 0.0002) and decreased VT (2.62 ± 0.43 vs. 2.19 ± 0.36 L.breath-1, ∆ - 0.44 ± 0.22 L.breath-1, ∆ - 16 ± 7%, P = 0.0002) in POST. CONCLUSION These data suggest prolonged exercise shifts ventilatory parameters at the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition, but [Formula: see text] remains stable. Real-time monitoring of [Formula: see text] may be a useful means of assessing proximity to the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition during prolonged exercise and is worthy of further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian D Stevenson
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Andrew E Kilding
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Daniel J Plews
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ed Maunder
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
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11
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Ramonas A, Laursen PB, Williden M, Kilding AE. The effect of acute manipulation of carbohydrate availability on high intensity running performance, running economy, critical speed, and substrate metabolism in trained Male runners. Eur J Sport Sci 2023; 23:1961-1971. [PMID: 36168815 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2022.2130097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Completing selected training sessions with reduced glycogen availability is associated with greater signalling and improved muscle oxidative capacity, although it may impact the overall quality of the session. We examined the effects of low carbohydrate availability on high intensity exercise performance, running economy, critical speed, and substrate metabolism. On two occasions, nine male runners (V̇O2peak 60.3 ± 3.3 mL.kg-1.min-1) completed a glycogen depletion protocol involving 90-min at 75%vV̇O2peak followed by 10 × 1-min at 110% vV̇O2peak. This was followed either by high (HIGH) or low (LOW) carbohydrate intake (>6 g.kg-1.day-1 and <50 g.day-1, respectively) until completion of a performance protocol on day 2 consisting of a series of time-trials (TT) (50m to 3000m) and physiological assessments. There were no differences between LOW and HIGH for any TT distance (mean TT performance times for LOW and HIGH were: 3000m TT 651.7 ± 52.8s and 646.4 ± 52.5s, 1500 m TT 304.0 ± 20.2s and 304.2 ± 22.1s, 400 m TT 67.64 ± 4.2s and 67.3 ± 3.8s, 50 m TT 7.27 ± 0.44s and 7.25 ± 0.45s, respectively, P > 0.05), though some athletes performed better in LOW (n = 5). While fat oxidation in LOW was significantly greater than HIGH (Δ0.32 ± 0.14 g.min-1; P < 0.001 at 14 km.h-1 and Δ0.34 ± 0.12 g.min-1 at 16 km.h-1; P < 0.01), running economy did not differ between trials (P > 0.05). Acute manipulation of carbohydrate availability showed immediate effects on substrate metabolism evidenced by greater fat oxidation without changes in RE. Acute low carbohydrate availability did not affect high intensity running performance across a range of distances.Highlights Acute manipulation of muscle glycogen availability using an exercise and dietary manipulation protocol did not affect subsequent high intensity running performance across a range of running distances.Reduced muscle glycogen resulted in a marked increase in fat oxidation in low glycogen condition but no changes in running economy or critical speed.Individual factors should be considered when prescribing high intensity sessions with restricted carbohydrate availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrius Ramonas
- Auckland University of Technology, Sports Performance Research Institute NZ, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Paul B Laursen
- Auckland University of Technology, Sports Performance Research Institute NZ, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Micalla Williden
- Auckland University of Technology, Sports Performance Research Institute NZ, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Andrew E Kilding
- Auckland University of Technology, Sports Performance Research Institute NZ, Auckland, New Zealand
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12
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Jones AM. The fourth dimension: physiological resilience as an independent determinant of endurance exercise performance. J Physiol 2023. [PMID: 37606604 DOI: 10.1113/jp284205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Endurance exercise performance is known to be closely associated with the three physiological pillars of maximal O2 uptake (V ̇ O 2 max $\dot{V}_{{\rm O}_{2}{\rm max}}$ ), economy or efficiency during submaximal exercise, and the fractional utilisation ofV ̇ O 2 max $\dot{V}_{{\rm O}_{2}{\rm max}}$ (linked to metabolic/lactate threshold phenomena). However, while 'start line' values of these variables are collectively useful in predicting performance in endurance events such as the marathon, it is not widely appreciated that these variables are not static but are prone to significant deterioration as fatiguing endurance exercise proceeds. For example, the 'critical power' (CP), which is a composite of the highest achievable steady-state oxidative metabolic rate and efficiency (O2 cost per watt), may fall by an average of 10% following 2 h of heavy intensity cycle exercise. Even more striking is that the extent of this deterioration displays appreciable inter-individual variability, with changes in CP ranging from <1% to ∼32%. The mechanistic basis for such differences in fatigue resistance or 'physiological resilience' are not resolved. However, resilience may be important in explaining superlative endurance performance and it has implications for the physiological evaluation of athletes and the design of interventions to enhance performance. This article presents new information concerning the dynamic plasticity of the three 'traditional' physiological variables and argues that physiological resilience should be considered as an additional component, or fourth dimension, in models of endurance exercise performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Jones
- Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, St Luke's Campus, Exeter, UK
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13
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Interaction of Factors Determining Critical Power. Sports Med 2023; 53:595-613. [PMID: 36622556 PMCID: PMC9935749 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-022-01805-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The physiological determinants of high-intensity exercise tolerance are important for both elite human performance and morbidity, mortality and disease in clinical settings. The asymptote of the hyperbolic relation between external power and time to task failure, critical power, represents the threshold intensity above which systemic and intramuscular metabolic homeostasis can no longer be maintained. After ~ 60 years of research into the phenomenon of critical power, a clear understanding of its physiological determinants has emerged. The purpose of the present review is to critically examine this contemporary evidence in order to explain the physiological underpinnings of critical power. Evidence demonstrating that alterations in convective and diffusive oxygen delivery can impact upon critical power is first addressed. Subsequently, evidence is considered that shows that rates of muscle oxygen utilisation, inferred via the kinetics of pulmonary oxygen consumption, can influence critical power. The data reveal a clear picture that alterations in the rates of flux along every step of the oxygen transport and utilisation pathways influence critical power. It is also clear that critical power is influenced by motor unit recruitment patterns. On this basis, it is proposed that convective and diffusive oxygen delivery act in concert with muscle oxygen utilisation rates to determine the intracellular metabolic milieu and state of fatigue within the myocytes. This interacts with exercising muscle mass and motor unit recruitment patterns to ultimately determine critical power.
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14
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Millour G, Lajoie C, Domingue F. Comparison of different models of Wʹ balance in high-level road cycling races. INT J PERF ANAL SPOR 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/24748668.2023.2176100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Millour
- Laboratoire de technologies & d’innovation pour la performance sportive, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Claude Lajoie
- Laboratoire de technologies & d’innovation pour la performance sportive, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Frédéric Domingue
- Laboratoire de technologies & d’innovation pour la performance sportive, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
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15
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Black MI, Skiba PF, Wylie LJ, Lewis J, Jones AM, Vanhatalo A. Accounting for Dynamic Changes in the Power-Duration Relationship Improves the Accuracy of W' Balance Modeling. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2023; 55:235-244. [PMID: 36094337 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed 1) to examine the accuracy with which W' reconstitution (W' REC ) is estimated by the W' balance (W' BAL ) models after a 3-min all-out cycling test (3MT), 2) to determine the effects of a 3MT on the power-duration relationship, and 3) to assess whether accounting for changes in the power-duration relationship during exercise improved estimates of W' REC . METHODS The power-duration relationship and the actual and estimated W' REC were determined for 12 data sets extracted from our laboratory database where participants had completed two 3MT separated by 1-min recovery (i.e., control [C-3MT] and fatigued [F-3MT]). RESULTS Actual W' REC (6.3 ± 1.4 kJ) was significantly overestimated by the W' BAL·ODE (9.8 ± 1.3 kJ; P < 0.001) and the W' BAL·MORTON (16.9 ± 2.6 kJ; P < 0.001) models but was not significantly different to the estimate provided by the W' BAL·INT (7.5 ± 1.5 kJ; P > 0.05) model. End power (EP) was 7% lower in the F-3MT (263 ± 40 W) compared with the C-3MT (282 ± 44 W; P < 0.001), and work done above EP (WEP) was 61% lower in the F-3MT (6.3 ± 1.4 kJ) compared with the C-3MT (16.9 ± 3.2 kJ). The size of the error in the estimated W' REC was correlated with the reduction in WEP for the W' BAL·INT and W' BAL·ODE models (both r > -0.74, P < 0.01) but not the W' BAL·MORTON model ( r = -0.18, P > 0.05). Accounting for the changes in the power-duration relationship improved the accuracy of the W' BAL·ODE and W' BAL·MORTON , but they remained significantly different to actual W' REC . CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate that the power-duration relationship is altered after a 3MT, and accounting for these changes improves the accuracy of the W' BAL·ODE and the W' BAL·MORTON , but not W' BAL·INT models. These results have important implications for the design and use of mathematical models describing the energetics of exercise performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew I Black
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UNITED KINGDOM
| | | | - Lee J Wylie
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - James Lewis
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Andrew M Jones
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Anni Vanhatalo
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UNITED KINGDOM
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16
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Spragg J, Leo P, Swart J. The Relationship between Physiological Characteristics and Durability in Male Professional Cyclists. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2023; 55:133-140. [PMID: 35977108 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to determine if durability can be predicted from laboratory measures in a professional cycling population. METHODS Data were collected from 10 professional cyclists (age = 19.2 ± 0.8 yr, body mass = 70.4 ± 5.5 kg, height = 182.9 ± 4.0 cm, body mass index = 21.0 ± 1.3 kg·m -2 , V̇O 2max = 74.4 ± 4.8 mL·kg -1 ·min -1 , critical power [CP] = 5.6 ± 0.6 W·kg -1 , W' = 23.7 ± 5.4 kJ). Participants completed a laboratory test and a CP test on two occasions. The second occasion was preceded by a novel fatiguing protocol, which consisted of five bouts of 8-min of exercise at 105%-110% of CP. CP in a fatigued state was expressed as a percentage of the fresh CP and coined delta CP (∆CP). The Pearson product correlation analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between laboratory-based measures and ∆CP. RESULTS Significant positive relationships were found between ∆CP and relative peak power output ( r = 0.891, P < 0.001), relative maximum oxygen uptake ( r = 0.835, P = 0.003), relative power output at the second ventilatory threshold ( r = 0.738, P = 0.015), power output at the first ventilatory threshold ( r = 0.748, P = 0.013) and relative power output at the first ventilatory threshold ( r = 0.826, P = 0.003), gross efficiency at 300 W ( r = 0.869, P = 0.001), and at 200 W ( r = 0.792, P = 0.006). Significant negative relationships were found between ∆CP and carbohydrate oxidation at 200 W ( r = -0.702, P = 0.024). A multiple linear regression demonstrated that ∆CP can be predicted from laboratory measures ( R2 = 0.96-0.98, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate the physiological determinants of durability in a professional cycling population.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Spragg
- HPALS, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA
| | - Peter Leo
- Department of Sport Science, Division of Performance Physiology and Prevention, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, AUSTRIA
| | - Jeroen Swart
- HPALS, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA
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17
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Haugen T, Sandbakk Ø, Seiler S, Tønnessen E. The Training Characteristics of World-Class Distance Runners: An Integration of Scientific Literature and Results-Proven Practice. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2022; 8:46. [PMID: 35362850 PMCID: PMC8975965 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-022-00438-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In this review we integrate the scientific literature and results-proven practice and outline a novel framework for understanding the training and development of elite long-distance performance. Herein, we describe how fundamental training characteristics and well-known training principles are applied. World-leading track runners (i.e., 5000 and 10,000 m) and marathon specialists participate in 9 ± 3 and 6 ± 2 (mean ± SD) annual competitions, respectively. The weekly running distance in the mid-preparation period is in the range 160–220 km for marathoners and 130–190 km for track runners. These differences are mainly explained by more running kilometers on each session for marathon runners. Both groups perform 11–14 sessions per week, and ≥ 80% of the total running volume is performed at low intensity throughout the training year. The training intensity distribution vary across mesocycles and differ between marathon and track runners, but common for both groups is that volume of race-pace running increases as the main competition approaches. The tapering process starts 7–10 days prior to the main competition. While the African runners live and train at high altitude (2000–2500 m above sea level) most of the year, most lowland athletes apply relatively long altitude camps during the preparation period. Overall, this review offers unique insights into the training characteristics of world-class distance runners by integrating scientific literature and results-proven practice, providing a point of departure for future studies related to the training and development in the Olympic long-distance events.
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18
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Prolonged cycling reduces power output at the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition. Eur J Appl Physiol 2022; 122:2673-2682. [PMID: 36127418 PMCID: PMC9488873 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-022-05036-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To determine the effect of prolonged exercise on moderate-to-heavy intensity transition power output and heart rate. Methods Fourteen endurance-trained cyclists and triathletes took part in the present investigation (13 males, 1 female, V·O2peak 59.9 ± 6.8 mL.kg−1.min−1). Following a characterisation trial, participants undertook a five-stage incremental step test to determine the power output and heart rate at the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition before and after two hours of cycling at 90% of the estimated power output at first ventilatory threshold (VT1). Results Power output at the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition significantly decreased following acute prolonged exercise when determined using expired gases (VT1, 217 ± 42 W vs. 196 ± 42 W, P < 0.0001) and blood lactate concentrations (LoglogLT, 212 ± 47 W vs. 190 ± 47 W, P = 0.004). This was attributable to loss of efficiency (VT1, -8 ± 10 W; LoglogLT, − 7 ± 9 W) and rates of metabolic energy expenditure at the transition (VT1, − 14 ± 11 W; LoglogLT, − 15 ± 22 W). The heart rate associated with the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition increased following acute prolonged exercise (VT1, 142 ± 9 beats.min−1 vs. 151 ± 12 beats.min−1, P < 0.001; LoglogLT, 140 ± 13 beats.min−1 vs. 150 ± 15 beats.min−1, P = 0.006). Conclusion These results demonstrate the external work output at the moderate-to-heavy intensity transition decreases during prolonged exercise due to decreased efficiency and rates of metabolic energy expenditure, but the associated heart rate increases. Therefore, individual assessments of athlete ‘durability’ are warranted. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00421-022-05036-9.
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19
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Dotan R. Unwarranted manipulation of the critical power concept: response to Dr. Burnley. Eur J Appl Physiol 2022; 122:1743-1744. [PMID: 35598194 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-022-04967-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Raffy Dotan
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St Catharines, ON, Canada.
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20
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Smyth B, Maunder E, Meyler S, Hunter B, Muniz-Pumares D. Decoupling of Internal and External Workload During a Marathon: An Analysis of Durability in 82,303 Recreational Runners. Sports Med 2022; 52:2283-2295. [PMID: 35511416 PMCID: PMC9388405 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-022-01680-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Aim This study characterised the decoupling of internal-to-external workload in marathon running and investigated whether decoupling magnitude and onset could improve predictions of marathon performance. Methods The decoupling of internal-to-external workload was calculated in 82,303 marathon runners (13,125 female). Internal workload was determined as a percentage of maximum heart rate, and external workload as speed relative to estimated critical speed (CS). Decoupling magnitude (i.e., decoupling in the 35–40 km segment relative to the 5–10 km segment) was classified as low (< 1.1), moderate (≥ 1.1 but < 1.2) or high (≥ 1.2). Decoupling onset was calculated when decoupling exceeded 1.025. Results The overall internal-to-external workload decoupling experienced was 1.16 ± 0.22, first detected 25.2 ± 9.9 km into marathon running. The low decoupling group (34.5% of runners) completed the marathon at a faster relative speed (88 ± 6% CS), had better marathon performance (217.3 ± 33.1 min), and first experienced decoupling later in the marathon (33.4 ± 9.0 km) compared to those in the moderate (32.7% of runners, 86 ± 6% CS, 224.9 ± 31.7 min, and 22.6 ± 7.7 km), and high decoupling groups (32.8% runners, 82 ± 7% CS, 238.5 ± 30.7 min, and 19.1 ± 6.8 km; all p < 0.01). Compared to females, males’ decoupling magnitude was greater (1.17 ± 0.22 vs. 1.12 ± 0.16; p < 0.01) and occurred earlier (25.0 ± 9.8 vs. 26.3 ± 10.6 km; p < 0.01). Marathon performance was associated with the magnitude and onset of decoupling, and when included in marathon performance models utilising CS and the curvature constant, prediction error was reduced from 6.45 to 5.16%. Conclusion Durability characteristics, assessed as internal-to-external workload ratio, show considerable inter-individual variability, and both its magnitude and onset are associated with marathon performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry Smyth
- Insight Centre for Data Analytics, School of Computer Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Ed Maunder
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Samuel Meyler
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Ben Hunter
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK
| | - Daniel Muniz-Pumares
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, AL10 9AB, UK
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A critique of "A critical review of critical power". Eur J Appl Physiol 2022; 122:1745-1746. [PMID: 35488901 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-022-04959-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Briand J, Tremblay J, Thibault G. Can Popular High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Models Lead to Impossible Training Sessions? Sports (Basel) 2022; 10:sports10010010. [PMID: 35050975 PMCID: PMC8822890 DOI: 10.3390/sports10010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a time-efficient training method suggested to improve health and fitness for the clinical population, healthy subjects, and athletes. Many parameters can impact the difficulty of HIIT sessions. This study aims to highlight and explain, through logical deductions, some limitations of the Skiba and Coggan models, widely used to prescribe HIIT sessions in cycling. We simulated 6198 different HIIT training sessions leading to exhaustion, according to the Skiba and Coggan-Modified (modification of the Coggan model with the introduction of an exhaustion criterion) models, for three fictitious athlete profiles (Time-Trialist, All-Rounder, Sprinter). The simulation revealed impossible sessions (i.e., requiring athletes to surpass their maximal power output over the exercise interval duration), characterized by a few short exercise intervals, performed in the severe and extreme intensity domains, alternating with long recovery bouts. The fraction of impossible sessions depends on the athlete profile and ranges between 4.4 and 22.9% for the Skiba model and 0.6 and 3.2% for the Coggan-Modified model. For practitioners using these HIIT models, this study highlights the importance of understanding these models’ inherent limitations and mathematical assumptions to draw adequate conclusions from their use to prescribe HIIT sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérémy Briand
- Institut National du Sport du Québec, 4141 Avenue Pierre-De-Coubertin, Montreal, QC H1V 3N7, Canada; (J.B.); (G.T.)
- École de Kinésiologie et des Sciences de l’Activité Physique, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, 2100 Boulevard Édouard-Montpetit, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Jonathan Tremblay
- École de Kinésiologie et des Sciences de l’Activité Physique, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, 2100 Boulevard Édouard-Montpetit, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
- Correspondence:
| | - Guy Thibault
- Institut National du Sport du Québec, 4141 Avenue Pierre-De-Coubertin, Montreal, QC H1V 3N7, Canada; (J.B.); (G.T.)
- École de Kinésiologie et des Sciences de l’Activité Physique, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, 2100 Boulevard Édouard-Montpetit, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
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Bi-exponential modelling of [Formula: see text] reconstitution kinetics in trained cyclists. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 122:677-689. [PMID: 34921345 PMCID: PMC8854279 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04874-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to investigate the individual [Formula: see text] reconstitution kinetics of trained cyclists following repeated bouts of incremental ramp exercise, and to determine an optimal mathematical model to describe [Formula: see text] reconstitution. METHODS Ten trained cyclists (age 41 ± 10 years; mass 73.4 ± 9.9 kg; [Formula: see text] 58.6 ± 7.1 mL kg min-1) completed three incremental ramps (20 W min-1) to the limit of tolerance with varying recovery durations (15-360 s) on 5-9 occasions. [Formula: see text] reconstitution was measured following the first and second recovery periods against which mono-exponential and bi-exponential models were compared with adjusted R2 and bias-corrected Akaike information criterion (AICc). RESULTS A bi-exponential model outperformed the mono-exponential model of [Formula: see text] reconstitution (AICc 30.2 versus 72.2), fitting group mean data well (adjR2 = 0.999) for the first recovery when optimised with parameters of fast component (FC) amplitude = 50.67%; slow component (SC) amplitude = 49.33%; time constant (τ)FC = 21.5 s; τSC = 388 s. Following the second recovery, W' reconstitution reduced by 9.1 ± 7.3%, at 180 s and 8.2 ± 9.8% at 240 s resulting in an increase in the modelled τSC to 716 s with τFC unchanged. Individual bi-exponential models also fit well (adjR2 = 0.978 ± 0.017) with large individual parameter variations (FC amplitude 47.7 ± 17.8%; first recovery: (τ)FC = 22.0 ± 11.8 s; (τ)SC = 377 ± 100 s; second recovery: (τ)FC = 16.3.0 ± 6.6 s; (τ)SC = 549 ± 226 s). CONCLUSIONS W' reconstitution kinetics were best described by a bi-exponential model consisting of distinct fast and slow phases. The amplitudes of the FC and SC remained unchanged with repeated bouts, with a slowing of W' reconstitution confined to an increase in the time constant of the slow component.
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Oxygen Uptake at Critical Speed and Power in Running: Perspectives and Practical Applications. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2021; 17:400-406. [PMID: 34911033 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2021-0207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Intensity domains are recommended when prescribing exercise, and critical power/speed (CP/CS) was designated the "gold standard" when determining maximal metabolic steady state. CS is the running analog of CP for cycle ergometry. However, a CP for running could be useful for controlling intensity when training in any type of condition. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate external, internal, and total CP (CPext, CPint, and CPtot), obtained based on running power calculations, and verified whether they occurred at the same percentage of peak oxygen uptake as the usual CS. Furthermore, this study examined whether selecting strides at the start, half, or end of the exhaustive runs to calculate running power influenced the estimation of the 3 CPs. METHODS Thirteen male runners performed a maximal incremental aerobic test and 4 exhaustive runs (90%, 100%, 110%, 120% peak speed) on a treadmill. The estimations of CS and CPs were obtained using a 3-parameter mathematical model fitted using weighted least square. RESULTS CS was estimated at 4.3 m/s while the estimates of CPext, CPint, and CPtot were 5.2, 2.6, and 7.8 W/kg, respectively. The corresponding V˙O2 for CS was 82.5 percentage of peak oxygen uptake and 81.3, 79.7, and 80.6 percentage of peak oxygen uptake for CPext, CPint, and CPtot, respectively. No systematic bias was reported when comparing CS and CPext, as well as the 3 different CPs, whereas systematic biases of 2.8% and 1.8% were obtained for the comparison among CS and CPint and CPtot, respectively. Nonetheless, the V˙O2 for CS and CPs were not statistically different (P = .09). Besides, no effect of the time stride selection for CPs as well as their resulting V˙O2 was obtained (P ≥ .44). CONCLUSIONS The systematic biases among V˙O2 at CS and CPint and CPtot were not clinically relevant. Therefore, CS and CPs closely represent the same fatigue threshold in running. The knowledge of CP in running might prove to be useful for both athletes and coaches, especially when combined with instantaneous running power. Indeed, this combination might help athletes controlling their targeted training intensity and coaches prescribing a training session in any type of condition.
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Kaiser BW, Kruse KK, Gibson BM, Santisteban KJ, Larson EA, Wilkins BW, Jones AM, Halliwill JR, Minson CT. The impact of elevated body core temperature on critical power as determined by a 3-min all-out test. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2021; 131:1543-1551. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00253.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The parameters of the power-duration relationship (critical power and W′) estimated by a 3-min all-out test were not altered by elevated body core temperature as compared with a thermoneutral condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan W. Kaiser
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
| | - Ka'eo K. Kruse
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Brandon M. Gibson
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
| | | | - Emily A. Larson
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
| | - Brad W. Wilkins
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
- Department of Human Physiology, Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington
| | - Andrew M. Jones
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Exeter, St. Luke’s Campus, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - John R. Halliwill
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
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Leo P, Spragg J, Podlogar T, Lawley JS, Mujika I. Power profiling and the power-duration relationship in cycling: a narrative review. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 122:301-316. [PMID: 34708276 PMCID: PMC8783871 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04833-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Emerging trends in technological innovations, data analysis and practical applications have facilitated the measurement of cycling power output in the field, leading to improvements in training prescription, performance testing and race analysis. This review aimed to critically reflect on power profiling strategies in association with the power-duration relationship in cycling, to provide an updated view for applied researchers and practitioners. The authors elaborate on measuring power output followed by an outline of the methodological approaches to power profiling. Moreover, the deriving a power-duration relationship section presents existing concepts of power-duration models alongside exercise intensity domains. Combining laboratory and field testing discusses how traditional laboratory and field testing can be combined to inform and individualize the power profiling approach. Deriving the parameters of power-duration modelling suggests how these measures can be obtained from laboratory and field testing, including criteria for ensuring a high ecological validity (e.g. rider specialization, race demands). It is recommended that field testing should always be conducted in accordance with pre-established guidelines from the existing literature (e.g. set number of prediction trials, inter-trial recovery, road gradient and data analysis). It is also recommended to avoid single effort prediction trials, such as functional threshold power. Power-duration parameter estimates can be derived from the 2 parameter linear or non-linear critical power model: P(t) = W′/t + CP (W′—work capacity above CP; t—time). Structured field testing should be included to obtain an accurate fingerprint of a cyclist’s power profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Leo
- Division of Performance Physiology & Prevention, Department of Sport Science, University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - James Spragg
- Health Physical Activity Lifestyle Sport Research Centre (HPALS), University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tim Podlogar
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, Izola, Slovenia
- Department of Automatics, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Justin S Lawley
- Division of Performance Physiology & Prevention, Department of Sport Science, University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Iñigo Mujika
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, Leioa, Basque Country, Spain
- Exercise Science Laboratory, School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Finis Terrae, Santiago, Chile
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The W' Balance Model: Mathematical and Methodological Considerations. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2021; 16:1561-1572. [PMID: 34686611 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2021-0205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Since its publication in 2012, the W' balance model has become an important tool in the scientific armamentarium for understanding and predicting human physiology and performance during high-intensity intermittent exercise. Indeed, publications featuring the model are accumulating, and it has been adapted for popular use both in desktop computer software and on wrist-worn devices. Despite the model's intuitive appeal, it has achieved mixed results thus far, in part due to a lack of clarity in its basis and calculation. Purpose: This review examines the theoretical basis, assumptions, calculation methods, and the strengths and limitations of the integral and differential forms of the W' balance model. In particular, the authors emphasize that the formulations are based on distinct assumptions about the depletion and reconstitution of W' during intermittent exercise; understanding the distinctions between the 2 forms will enable practitioners to correctly implement the models and interpret their results. The authors then discuss foundational issues affecting the validity and utility of the model, followed by evaluating potential modifications and suggesting avenues for further research. Conclusions: The W' balance model has served as a valuable conceptual and computational tool. Improved versions may better predict performance and further advance the physiology of high-intensity intermittent exercise.
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Næss S, Sollie O, Gløersen ØN, Losnegard T. Exercise Intensity and Pacing Pattern During a Cross-Country Olympic Mountain Bike Race. Front Physiol 2021; 12:702415. [PMID: 34349670 PMCID: PMC8326908 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.702415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To examine the power profiles and pacing patterns in relation to critical power (CP) and maximal aerobic power (MAP) output during a cross-country Olympic (XCO) mountain bike race. Methods: Five male and two female national competitive XCO cyclists completed a UCI Cat. 1 XCO race. The races were 19 km and 23 km and contained five (female) and six (male) laps, respectively. Power output (PO) during the race was measured with the cyclists’ personal power meters. On two laboratory tests using their own bikes and power meters, CP and work capacity above CP (W') were calculated using three time trials of 12, 7, and 3 min, while MAP was established based on a 3-step submaximal test and the maximal oxygen uptake from the 7-min time trial. Results: Mean PO over the race duration (96 ± 7 min) corresponded to 76 ± 9% of CP and 63 ± 4% of MAP. 40 ± 8% of race time was spent with PO > CP, and the mean duration and magnitude of the bouts >CP was ~8 s and ~120% of CP. From the first to last lap, time >CP and accumulated W' per lap decreased with 9 ± 6% and 45 ± 17%, respectively. For single >CP bouts, mean magnitude and mean W' expended decreased by 25 ± 8% and 38 ± 15% from the first to the last lap, respectively. Number and duration of bouts did not change significantly between laps. Conclusion: The highly variable pacing pattern in XCO implies the need for rapid changes in metabolic power output, as a result of numerous separate short-lived >CP actions which decrease in magnitude in later laps, but with little lap-to-lap variation in number and duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffan Næss
- Department of Physical Performance, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ove Sollie
- Department of Physical Performance, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Thomas Losnegard
- Department of Physical Performance, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Oslo, Norway
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Aandahl MH, Noordhof DA, Tjønna AE, Sandbakk Ø. Effect of Carbohydrate Content in a Pre-event Meal on Endurance Performance-Determining Factors: A Randomized Controlled Crossover-Trial. Front Sports Act Living 2021; 3:664270. [PMID: 34124659 PMCID: PMC8192847 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2021.664270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study aimed to investigate the effect of the relative CHO content in a pre-event meal on time to exhaustion (TTE), peak oxygen uptake (V∙O2peak), the 2nd lactate threshold (LT2), onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA), and work economy (WE) and to compare responses between well-trained and recreationally trained individuals. Eleven well-trained and 10 recreationally trained men performed three trials in a randomized cross-over design, in which they performed exercise tests (1) after a high-CHO pre-event meal (3 g · kg−1), (2) a low-CHO pre-event meal (0.5 g · kg−1), or (3) in a fasted-state. The test protocol consisted of five submaximal 5-min constant-velocity bouts of increasing intensity and a graded exercise test (GXT) to measure TTE. A repeated measure ANOVA with a between-subjects factor (well-trained vs. recreational) was performed. A main effect of pre-event meal was found (p = 0.001), with TTE being 8.0% longer following the high-CHO meal compared to the fasted state (p = 0.009) and 7.2% longer compared to the low-CHO meal (p = 0.010). No significant effect of pre-event meal on V∙O2peak, LT2, OBLA, or WE (p ≥ 0.087) was found and no significant interaction effect between training status and pre-event CHO intake was found for TTE or any of the performance-determining variables (p ≥ 0.257). In conclusion, high-CHO content in the pre-event meal led to a longer TTE compared to a meal with a low-CHO content or exercising in a fasted state, both in well-trained and recreationally trained participants. However, the underlying physiological reason for the increased TTE is unclear, as no effect of pre-event meal on the main physiological performance-determining variables was found. Thus, pre-event CHO intake should be standardized when the goal is to assess endurance performance but seems to be of less importance when assessing the main performance-determining variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats Holst Aandahl
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Dionne A Noordhof
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Centre for Elite Sports Research, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Arnt Erik Tjønna
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Central Administration, St. Olavs Hospital, NeXt Move Core Facility, The University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Øyvind Sandbakk
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Centre for Elite Sports Research, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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Smyth B, Muniz-Pumares D. Calculation of Critical Speed from Raw Training Data in Recreational Marathon Runners. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2021; 52:2637-2645. [PMID: 32472926 PMCID: PMC7664951 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Critical speed (CS) represents the highest intensity at which a physiological steady state may be reached. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether estimations of CS obtained from raw training data can predict performance and pacing in marathons. METHODS We investigated running activities logged into an online fitness platform by >25,000 recreational athletes before big-city marathons. Each activity contained time, distance, and elevation every 100 m. We computed grade-adjusted pacing and the fastest pace recorded for a set of target distances (400, 800, 1000, 1500, 3000, and 5000 m). CS was determined as the slope of the distance-time relationship using all combinations of, at least, three target distances. RESULTS The relationship between distance and time was linear, irrespective of the target distances used (pooled mean ± SD: R = 0.9999 ± 0.0001). The estimated values of CS from all models were not different (3.74 ± 0.08 m·s), and all models correlated with marathon performance (R = 0.672 ± 0.036, error = 8.01% ± 0.51%). CS from the model including 400, 800, and 5000 m best predicted performance (R = 0.695, error = 7.67%) and was used in further analysis. Runners completed the marathon at 84.8% ± 13.6% CS, with faster runners competing at speeds closer to CS (93.0% CS for 150 min marathon times vs 78.9% CS for 360 min marathon times). Runners who completed the first half of the marathon at >94% of their CS, and particularly faster than CS, were more likely to slowdown by more than 25% in the second half of race. CONCLUSION This study suggests that estimations of CS from raw training data can successfully predict marathon performance and provide useful pacing information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry Smyth
- Insight Centre for Data Analytics, School of Computer Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, IRELAND
| | - Daniel Muniz-Pumares
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UNITED KINGDOM
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Pethick J, Winter SL, Burnley M. Physiological Evidence That the Critical Torque Is a Phase Transition, Not a Threshold. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2021; 52:2390-2401. [PMID: 32366801 PMCID: PMC7556242 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Distinct physiological responses to exercise occur in the heavy- and severe-intensity domains, which are separated by the critical power or critical torque (CT). However, how the transition between these intensity domains actually occurs is not known. We tested the hypothesis that CT is a sudden threshold, with no gradual transition from heavy- to severe-intensity behavior within the confidence limits associated with the CT. Methods Twelve healthy participants performed four exhaustive severe-intensity trials for the determination of CT, and four 30-min trials in close proximity to CT (one or two SE above or below each participant’s CT estimate; CT − 2, CT − 1, CT + 1, CT + 2). Muscle O2 uptake, rectified electromyogram, and torque variability and complexity were monitored throughout each trial, and maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) with femoral nerve stimulation were performed before and after each trial to determine central and peripheral fatigue responses. Results The rates of change in fatigue-related variables, muscle O2 uptake, electromyogram amplitude, and torque complexity were significantly faster in the severe trials compared with CT − 2. For example, the fall in MVC torque was −1.5 ± 0.8 N·m·min−1 in CT − 2 versus –7.9 ± 2.5 N·m·min−1 in the lowest severe-intensity trial (P < 0.05). Individual analyses showed a low frequency of severe responses even in the circa-CT trials ostensibly above the CT, but also the rare appearance of severe-intensity responses in all circa-CT trials. Conclusions These data demonstrate that the transition between heavy- and severe-intensity exercise occurs gradually rather than suddenly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Pethick
- Endurance Research Group, School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Kent, Kent, UNITED KINGDOM
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The Importance of 'Durability' in the Physiological Profiling of Endurance Athletes. Sports Med 2021; 51:1619-1628. [PMID: 33886100 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-021-01459-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Profiling physiological attributes is an important role for applied exercise physiologists working with endurance athletes. These attributes are typically assessed in well-rested athletes. However, as has been demonstrated in the literature and supported by field data presented here, the attributes measured during routine physiological-profiling assessments are not static, but change over time during prolonged exercise. If not accounted for, shifts in these physiological attributes during prolonged exercise have implications for the accuracy of their use in intensity regulation during prolonged training sessions or competitions, quantifying training adaptations, training-load programming and monitoring, and the prediction of exercise performance. In this review, we argue that current models used in the routine physiological profiling of endurance athletes do not account for these shifts. Therefore, applied exercise physiologists working with endurance athletes would benefit from development of physiological-profiling models that account for shifts in physiological-profiling variables during prolonged exercise and quantify the 'durability' of individual athletes, here defined as the time of onset and magnitude of deterioration in physiological-profiling characteristics over time during prolonged exercise. We propose directions for future research and applied practice that may enable better understanding of athlete durability.
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Power Profiling, Workload Characteristics, and Race Performance of U23 and Professional Cyclists During the Multistage Race Tour of the Alps. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2021; 16:1089–1095. [PMID: 33789246 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2020-0381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to compare the power profile, internal and external workloads, and racing performance between U23 and professional cyclists and between varying rider types across 2 editions of a professional multistage race. METHODS Nine U23 cyclists from a Union Cycliste Internationale "Continental Team" (age 20.8 [0.9] y; body mass 71.2 [6.3] kg) and 8 professional cyclists (28.1 [3.2] y; 63.0 [4.6] kg) participated in this study. Rider types were defined as all-rounders, general classification (GC) riders, and domestiques. Data were collected during 2 editions of a 5-day professional multistage race and split into the following 4 categories: power profile, external and internal workloads, and race performance. RESULTS The professional group, including domestiques and GC riders, recorded higher relative power profile values after certain amounts of total work (1000-3000 kJ) than the U23 group or all-rounders (P ≤ .001-.049). No significant differences were found for external workload measures between U23 and professional cyclists, nor among rider types. Internal workloads were higher in U23 cyclists and all-rounders (P ≤ .001-.043) compared with professionals, domestiques, and GC riders, respectively. The power profile significantly predicted percentage general classification and Union Cycliste Internationale points (R2 = .90-.99), whereas external and internal workloads did not. CONCLUSION These findings reveal that the power profile represents a practical tool to discriminate between professionals and U23 cyclists as well as rider types. The power profile after 1000 to 3000 kJ of total work could be used by practitioners to evaluate the readiness of U23 cyclists to move into the professional ranks, as well as differentiate between rider types.
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Jones AM, Kirby BS, Clark IE, Rice HM, Fulkerson E, Wylie LJ, Wilkerson DP, Vanhatalo A, Wilkins BW. Physiological demands of running at 2-hour marathon race pace. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2020; 130:369-379. [PMID: 33151776 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00647.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The requirements of running a 2-h marathon have been extensively debated but the actual physiological demands of running at ∼21.1 km/h have never been reported. We therefore conducted laboratory-based physiological evaluations and measured running economy (O2 cost) while running outdoors at ∼21.1 km/h, in world-class distance runners as part of Nike's "Breaking 2" marathon project. On separate days, 16 world-class male distance runners (age, 29 ± 4 yr; height, 1.72 ± 0.04 m; mass, 58.9 ± 3.3 kg) completed an incremental treadmill test for the assessment of V̇O2peak, O2 cost of submaximal running, lactate threshold and lactate turn-point, and a track test during which they ran continuously at 21.1 km/h. The laboratory-determined V̇O2peak was 71.0 ± 5.7 mL/kg/min with lactate threshold and lactate turn-point occurring at 18.9 ± 0.4 and 20.2 ± 0.6 km/h, corresponding to 83 ± 5% and 92 ± 3% V̇O2peak, respectively. Seven athletes were able to attain a steady-state V̇O2 when running outdoors at 21.1 km/h. The mean O2 cost for these athletes was 191 ± 19 mL/kg/km such that running at 21.1 km/h required an absolute V̇O2 of ∼4.0 L/min and represented 94 ± 3% V̇O2peak. We report novel data on the O2 cost of running outdoors at 21.1 km/h, which enables better modeling of possible marathon performances by elite athletes. Using the value for O2 cost measured in this study, a sub 2-h marathon would require a 59 kg runner to sustain a V̇O2 of approximately 4.0 L/min or 67 mL/kg/min.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We report the physiological characteristics and O2 cost of running overground at ∼21.1 km/h in a cohort of the world's best male distance runners. We provide new information on the absolute and relative O2 uptake required to run at 2-h marathon pace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Jones
- Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, St. Luke's Campus, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ida E Clark
- Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, St. Luke's Campus, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah M Rice
- Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, St. Luke's Campus, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lee J Wylie
- Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, St. Luke's Campus, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Daryl P Wilkerson
- Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, St. Luke's Campus, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Anni Vanhatalo
- Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, St. Luke's Campus, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Brad W Wilkins
- Nike Sport Research Lab, Beaverton, Oregon.,Department of Human Physiology, Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington
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The Application of Critical Power, the Work Capacity above Critical Power (W'), and its Reconstitution: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence and Implications for Cycling Training Prescription. Sports (Basel) 2020; 8:sports8090123. [PMID: 32899777 PMCID: PMC7552657 DOI: 10.3390/sports8090123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The two-parameter critical power (CP) model is a robust mathematical interpretation of the power–duration relationship, with CP being the rate associated with the maximal aerobic steady state, and W′ the fixed amount of tolerable work above CP available without any recovery. The aim of this narrative review is to describe the CP concept and the methodologies used to assess it, and to summarize the research applying it to intermittent cycle training techniques. CP and W′ are traditionally assessed using a number of constant work rate cycling tests spread over several days. Alternatively, both the 3-min all-out and ramp all-out protocols provide valid measurements of CP and W′ from a single test, thereby enhancing their suitability to athletes and likely reducing errors associated with the assumptions of the CP model. As CP represents the physiological landmark that is the boundary between heavy and severe intensity domains, it presents several advantages over the de facto arbitrarily defined functional threshold power as the basis for cycle training prescription at intensities up to CP. For intensities above CP, precise prescription is not possible based solely on aerobic measures; however, the addition of the W′ parameter does facilitate the prescription of individualized training intensities and durations within the severe intensity domain. Modelling of W′ reconstitution extends this application, although more research is needed to identify the individual parameters that govern W′ reconstitution rates and their kinetics.
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Chorley A, Bott RP, Marwood S, Lamb KL. Physiological and anthropometric determinants of critical power, W' and the reconstitution of W' in trained and untrained male cyclists. Eur J Appl Physiol 2020; 120:2349-2359. [PMID: 32776219 PMCID: PMC7560916 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-020-04459-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose This study examined the relationship of physiological and anthropometric characteristics with parameters of the critical power (CP) model, and in particular the reconstitution of W′ following successive bouts of maximal exercise, amongst trained and untrained cyclists. Methods Twenty male adults (trained nine; untrained 11; age 39 ± 15 year; mass 74.7 ± 8.7 kg; V̇O2max 58.0 ± 8.7 mL kg−1 min−1) completed three incremental ramps (20 W min−1) to exhaustion interspersed with 2-min recoveries. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to assess relationships for W′ reconstitution after the first recovery (W′rec1), the delta in W′ reconstituted between recoveries (∆W′rec), CP and W′. Results CP was strongly related to V̇O2max for both trained (r = 0.82) and untrained participants (r = 0.71), whereas W′ was related to V̇O2max when both groups were considered together (r = 0.54). W′rec1 was strongly related to V̇O2max for the trained (r = 0.81) but not untrained (r = 0.18); similarly, ∆W′rec was strongly related to V̇O2max (r = − 0.85) and CP (r = − 0.71) in the trained group only. Conclusions Notable physiological relationships between parameters of aerobic fitness and the measurements of W′ reconstitution were observed, which differed among groups. The amount of W′ reconstitution and the maintenance of W′ reconstitution that occurred with repeated bouts of maximal exercise were found to be related to key measures of aerobic fitness such as CP and V̇O2max. This data demonstrates that trained cyclists wishing to improve their rate of W′ reconstitution following repeated efforts should focus training on improving key aspects of aerobic fitness such as V̇O2max and CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Chorley
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Chester, Chester, CH1 4BJ, UK.
| | - Richard P Bott
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Chester, Chester, CH1 4BJ, UK
| | - Simon Marwood
- School of Health Sciences, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool, L16 9JD, UK
| | - Kevin L Lamb
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Chester, Chester, CH1 4BJ, UK
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Rothschild J, Sheard AC, Crocker GH. Influence of a 2-km Swim on the Cycling Power-Duration Relationship in Triathletes. J Strength Cond Res 2020; 36:1431-1436. [PMID: 32341246 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000003623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Rothschild, J, Sheard, AC, and Crocker, GH. Influence of a 2-km swim on the cycling power-duration relationship in triathletes. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2020-Triathletes must cycle after swimming, and so, it is important to understand how cycling performance may be affected by prior swimming. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a 2-km swim at a self-selected race-pace intensity on the cycling power-duration relationship. Eighteen trained triathletes (12 M, 6 F; 37.1 ± 10.6 years, V[Combining Dot Above]O2max 54.8 ± 10.1 ml·kg·min) performed two 3-minute all-out cycling tests (3MTs) on separate days with one 3 MT immediately after a 2-km swim (swim-bike [SB]) and one without prior swimming (bike-only [BO]). The power-duration relationship was expressed as the total work done (TWD) and subdivided into end-test power (EP) and work done above EP. To assess swimming intensity, heart rate (HR) was continuously monitored during the 2-km swim and blood lactate was assessed on completion of the swim. End-swim lactate was 4.2 ± 1.8 mM, and mean swimming HR was 147 ± 18 b·min. The 2-km swim decreased TWD during the 3MT by 6% (BO: 62.8 ± 12.7 kJ; SB: 58.9 ± 13.4 kJ; p = 0.001) though neither EP (BO: 281 ± 65 W; SB: 269 ± 68 W; p = 0.102) nor work done above EP (BO: 12.1 ± 3.8 kJ; SB: 10.5 ± 4.2 kJ; p = 0.096) differed between trials. In conclusion, TWD while cycling decreases after a 2-km race-pace swim. Results from this study suggest that triathletes should determine racing cycling power following a simulated race-pace swim.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Rothschild
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.,School of Kinesiology, Nutrition & Food Science, California State University, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Ailish C Sheard
- School of Kinesiology, Nutrition & Food Science, California State University, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - George H Crocker
- School of Kinesiology, Nutrition & Food Science, California State University, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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Joyner MJ, Hunter SK, Lucia A, Jones AM. Last Word on Viewpoint: Physiology and fast marathons. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2020; 128:1086-1087. [PMID: 32293918 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00181.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Joyner
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Sandra K Hunter
- Exercise Science Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Alejandro Lucia
- Universidad Europea de Madrid, Department of Sport Sciences, and Research Institute Hospital 12 de Octubre (imas12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrew M Jones
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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