Physiologic Correlates to Running Performance in Pre-Pubertal Distance Runners

In adults, four major variables have been shown to be associated with success in distance running performance: submaximal oxygen consumption (running economy), peak oxygen consumption (Peak VO₂), ventilatory threshold (VT) and fractional utilisation (FU). The primary aim of this study was to describe the relationship between the 3000 m race times of run-trained pre-pubertal boys to these four variables. Thirteen male run-trained pre-pubertal boys (age 11.7 ± 1.1 yrs, mean ± SD), volunteered to take part in a 3000 m time trial and laboratory assessment, consisting of treadmill running at four submaximal speeds (8,9.6, 11.2 and 12.8 km h^-1) as well as a peak VO₂ test. The group demonstrated a heterogeneous array of peak VO₂ data. A high level of association (p < 0.05) was found between mass-relative peak VO₂ and 3000 m time trial results (r = - 0.83). In addition ventilatory threshold expressed as %peak VO₂, VO₂ at VT and estimated velocity at VT was also highly related to 3000 m time trial (r = - 0.78, - 0.77 and - 0.77) respectively. Fractional utilisation ( %peak VO₂) was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with race time at the final two submaximal running speeds only (11.2 and 12.8 km h^-1) (r = 0.61 and 0.67, respectively). Respiratory Exchange Ratio (RER) was also found to be significantly (p<0.05) associated with 3000 m race time at 11.2 and 12.8 km h^-1. Overall peak VO₂ appeared to be the single most important factor associated with success at 3000 m.

Key words

Pre-pubertal - running economy - ventilatory threshold - peak VO₂