Maximal oxygen uptake, ventilatory anaerobic threshold and endurance performance in elite saudi distance runners

Abstract

To examine Lhc relationship between maximal oxygen uptake (VO, max), ventilatory snaernbir: threshr)l:i WAT), arid unduruncu running peiformance. Methods: Twelve trained Saudi male distance runners completed a 1 b km running race, and were later tester! in the laboratory to determine their VQ., rriHX and VAT. Cardiorespiratory and rnetahr>lic parameters were assessed dirinq a grsriad treadmill test using an automates open-circuit spirometry; VAT was determined by gas exchange nisi hfjtl. Results: The findings nf this study indicated Lhat the elite Saudi runners had a mean VO; max of about 71 ml.'kg • mir. It was; ulto shown lhat VO-, max had a moderately strong correlation with 1 5 km running time ( r - U.&9}. However, VAT had a -nycti highar aurrulaLion with the 1 5 knn running time ( r - 0.S2). FurLhennore, VO,. max relative to body weight was shown to be etrorgly correlated with VAT \r = 0 . 9 2 1 . Conclusions: A 1 5 km endurance perfnrrnanca is more closely associated with VAT than with VO^ max in elite Imq-distance runners.