Relationship between Classic Physiological Variables and Running Performance in Recreational Runners

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between classic physiological variables [maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max), %VO₂max at anaerobic threshold (AT), and running economy (RE)] and running performance in recreational runners. 39 recreational runners (24 males and 15 females) underwent a treadmill running test to determine the classic physiological variables and velocity at AT (vAT). AT was defined as the point at which the respiratory exchange ratio stabilized above 1.0, and it was used as an indirect performance variable. Multiple regression analysis showed that 94% of vAT values were explained by all classic physiological variables (p<0.001). In addition, all variables were significantly explanatory (VO₂max, p<0.001; %VO₂max at AT, p<0.001; and RE, p<0.001). In total, 35 subjects had completed a marathon within the past year. For these subjects, single regression analysis was performed, which showed that 67% of recent marathon times was explained by vAT (r=0.82, p<0.05). This study indicated that during a treadmill running test, VO₂max, %VO₂max at AT, and RE can precisely explain vAT, which is highly correlated with recent marathon times.