Time limit and time at (V) over dot O-2max, during a continuous and an intermittent run

Background. The purpose of this study was to verify by track field tests, w hether sub-elite runners (n=15) could (i) reach their (V) over dot(2max) wh ile running at v50% Delta i.e. midway between the speed associated with lac tate threshold (VLAT) and that associated with maximal aerobic power (v(V) over dot(2max)), and (ii) if an intermittent exercise provokes a maximal an d/or supra maximal oxygen consumption longer than a continuous one. Methods. Within three days, subjects underwent a multistage incremental tes t during which their v(V) over dotO(2max) and vLAT were determined; they th en performed two additional testing sessions, where continuous and intermit tent running exercises at v50%Delta were performed up to exhaustion, Subjec t's gas exchange and heart rate were continuously recorded by means of a te lemetric apparatus. Blood samples were taken from fingertip and analysed fo r blood lactate concentration. Results. in the continuous and the intermittent tests peak (V) over dot(2) exceeded (V) over dot(2max) values, as determined during the incremental te st. However in the intermittent exercise, peak (V) over dot(2), time to exh austion and time at (V) over dot: reached significantly higher values, whil e blood lactate accumulation showed significantly lower values than in the continuous one. Conclusions, The v50%Delta is sufficient to stimulate (V) over dot(2max) in both intermittent and continuous running, The intermittent exercise result s better than the continuous one in increasing maximal aerobic power allowi ng longer time at (V) over dot (2max) and obtaining higher peak (V) over do t (2) with lower lactate accumulation.