Effects of 4-wk training using V(max)/T(max) on V̇O(2max) and performance in athletes

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a 4-wk individualized training program using V(max) as the exercise intensity and utilizing between 60 and 75% of a subject's T(max) as the exercise duration. Methods: Five male, middle-distance, trained subjects with the following characteristics (mean ± SD): age, 22.8 ± 4.5 yr; height, 181 ± 4.7 cm; weight, 74.1 ± 3.2 kg; skinfolds based on five areas, 35.9 ± 3.9; and V̇O(2max), 61.5 ± 6.1 mL O2 · kg · min-1 volunteered to participate in this study. Before the training program, the subjects completed a 3000-m time trial, and three each of V̇O(2max)/V(max) and T(max) tests. Subjects then completed a 4-wk training program on the treadmill and were then retested on the V̇O(2max)/V(max) and T(max) tests. Results: Pretraining versus posttraining results showed significant (P < 0.05) increases in average V(max) (20.5 km · h-1 vs 21.3 km · h-1 posttraining), T(max) (225.5 s vs 300.9 s posttraining), and V̇O(2max) (61.5 mL O2 · kg · min-1 vs 64.5 mL O2 · kg · min-1). The 3000-m time trial decreased significantly from a pretraining value of 616.6 s to a posttraining value of 599.6 s (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that by utilizing between 60 and 75% of T(max) as an exercise duration and using V(max) as an exercise intensity that these two parameters can be extremely valuable in the prescription of exercise programs for athletes.