The influence of weekly training distance on fractional utilization of maximum aerobic capacity in marathon and ultramarathon runners

Abstract

This study was designed to examine the interrelationships between performance in endurance running events from 10 to 90 km, training volume 3-5 weeks prior to competition, and the fractional utilization of maximal aerobic capacity (%VO2max) during each of the events. Thirty male subjects underwent horizontal treadmill testing to determine their VO2max, and steady-state VO2 at specific speeds to allow for calculation of %VO2max sustained during competition. Runners were divided into groups of ten according to their weekly training distance (group A trained less than 60 km X week-1, group B 60 to 100 km X week-1, and group C more than 100 km X week-1). Runners training more than 100 km X week-1 had significantly faster running times (average 19.2%) in all events than did those training less than 100 km X week-1. VO2max or %VO2max sustained during competition was not different between groups. The faster running speed of the more trained runners, running at the same %VO2max during competition, was due to their superior running economy (19.9%). Thus all of the group differences in running performance could be explained on the basis of their differences in running economy. These findings suggest either that the main effect of training more than 100 km X week-1 may be to increase running economy, or that runners who train more than 100 km X week-1 may have inherited superior running economy.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Fuel kinetics during intense running and cycling when fed carbohydrate

“…Peak treadmill running velocity was determined during a maximal test on a horizontal, motor-driven treadmill (Powerjog EG30 Sports Engineering, Birmingham, UK), as previously described by Scrimgeour et al (1986). The treadmill was calibrated before all maximal tests and the subsequently described trials.…”

No Correlation of Skin-Fold Thickness with Race Performance in Male Recreational Mountain Bike Ultra-Marathoners

“…In marathon finishers, the longest mileage covered per training session is the best predictor for a successful completion of a marathon (25), and the number of training sessions per week and the number of years training were the best predictors of competitive performance at the marathon distance (22). Scrimgeour et al (26) found that runners training for more than 100 km per week have significantly faster race times over 10 to 90 km than athletes covering less than 100 km. According to Billat et al (27), top class marathon runners train for more total kilometres per week and at a higher velocity than runners at a lower level.…”

Lungs And Legs: Entrainment Of Breathing To Locomotion In Highly Trained Distance Runners

“…Runners who perform a high volume of endurance training tend to be more economical (Scrimgeour et al, 1986), which has led to the suggestion that running high mileage (>70 miles per week) seems to improve running economy (Scrimgeour et al, 1986;Sjodin & Svedenhag, 1985;Jones & Carter, 2000). However, it is unknown whether the relationship between training volume and economy is cause and effect or that the most economical runners are simply capable of training with a higher volume.…”