Assessment of maximal aerobic speed in runners with different performance levels: Interest of a new intermittent running test

Objectives. - To compare performance and physiological responses derived from a new intermittent field test (Test(3L)) with a standard continuous test (Test(VAM)), and to examine its reproducibility. Methods. - A first part (n = 7) allowed defining the maximal aerobic speed (MAS(3L)) equations derived from Test(3L). A second part allowed validating MAS(3L) in 43 runners, divided into three performance groups: G1 beginners (n = 22), G2 trained athletes (n = 14), and G3 elite (n = 7). The 43 runners performed the Test(3L) twice to measure its reproducibility. Results. - The MAS values measured by the Test(VAM) (MAS(VAM)) were not significantly different from MAS(3L), for each performance group taken individually or as a whole (3Gr). The difference between MAS(VAM) and MAS(3L) varied between 0.2 and 0.4 km.h on average. Similarly, no significant maximum heart rate (HRmax) differences were found between both tests. In contrast, blood lactate concentration (LA) was significantly higher in Test(VAM) compared to Test(3L). The total duration of Test(VAM) was 2.74, 3.02, 2.55, and 2.57 times longer for 3Gr, G1, G2, G3, respectively compared to Test(3L) (P < 0,01). There were no significant differences in MAS, HRmax and LA between the test-retest procedures for Test(3L). Conclusion. - Hence, it is suggested that the MAS and HRmax derived from Test(3L) can be used when designing training programs. However, caution must be taken with regard to LA. Additionally, Test(3L) is more or less 2.5 times shorter than Test(VAM) and has a high reproducibility. (C) 2021 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.