Accuracy of training recommendations based on a treadmill multistage incremental exercise test

Abstract

Competitive runners will occasionally undergo exercise in a laboratory setting to obtain predictive and prescriptive information regarding their performance. The present research aimed to assess whether the physiological demands of lab-based treadmill running (TM) can simulate that of over-ground (OG) running using a commonly used protocol. Fifteen healthy volunteers with a weekly mileage of > 20 km over the past 6 months and treadmill experience participated in this cross-sectional study. Two stepwise incremental tests until volitional exhaustion was performed in a fixed order within one week in an Outpatient Clinic research laboratory and outdoor athletic track. Running velocity (IAT speed ), heart rate (IATHR) and lactate concentration at the individual anaerobic threshold (IATbLa) were primary endpoints. Additionally, distance covered (DIST), maximal heart rate (HR max ), maximal blood lactate concentration (bLa max ) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) at IAT speed were analyzed. IAT speed , DIST and HR max were not statistically significantly different between conditions, whereas bLa max and RPE at IAT speed showed statistical significance (p < 0.05). Apart from RPE at IAT speed , IAT speed , DIST, HR max and bLa max strongly correlate between conditions (r = 0.815-0.988). High reliability between conditions provides strong evidence to suggest that running on a treadmill are physiologically comparable to that of OG and that training recommendations and be made with assurance.