The Self-Paced VO2max Test to Assess Maximal Oxygen Uptake in Highly Trained Runners

Purpose: The novel self-paced maximal-oxygen-uptake (VO2max) test (SPV) may be a more suitable alternative to traditional maximal tests for elite athletes due to the ability to self-regulate pace. This study aimed to examine whether the SPV can be administered on a motorized treadmill. Methods: Fourteen highly trained male distance runners performed a standard graded exercise test (GXT), an incline-based SPV (SPVincline), and a speed-based SPV (SPVspeed). The GXT included a plateau-verification stage. Both SPV protocols included 5 x 2-min stages (and a plateau-verification stage) and allowed for self-pacing based on fixed increments of rating of perceived exertion: 11, 13, 15, 17, and 20. The participants varied their speed and incline on the treadmill by moving between different marked zones in which the tester would then adjust the intensity. Results: There was no significant difference (P = .319, ES = 0.21) in the VO2max achieved in the SPVspeed (67.6 +/- 3.6 mL.kg(-1).min(-1), 95%CI = 65.6-69.7 mL .kg(-1).min(-1)) compared with that achieved in the GXT (68.6 +/- 6.0 mL.kg(-1).min(-1), 95%CI = 65.1-72.1 mL.kg(-1).min(-1)). Participants achieved a significantly higher VO2max in the SPVincline (70.6 +/- 4.3 mL.kg(-1).min(-1), 95%CI = 68.1-73.0 mL.kg(-1) .min(-1)) than in either the GXT (P = .027, ES = 0.39) or SPVspeed (P = .001, ES = 0.76). Conclusions: The SPVspeed protocol produces VO2max values similar to those obtained in the GXT and may represent a more appropriate and athlete-friendly test that is more oriented toward the variable speed found in competitive sport.