Assessment of middle-distance running performance in sub-elite young runners using energy cost of running.

The purpose of this study was to assess the validity of v(amax) as an indicator of middle-distance running performance in sub-elite young runners, v(amax) being defined as the quotient maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) divided by the net energy cost of running (Cr) on a treadmill at a submaximal running velocity (280 m x min[-1]). The VO2max, ventilatory threshold, v(amax), and Cr were assessed in 39 young male sub-elite runners having only small variations in performance level. The relationship between each variable and running performance (at 1500 m, 3000 m, and 5000 m) was evaluated. A trend toward a negative correlation existed between Cr and performance although this was not significant. The VO2max and v(amax) were significantly related to performance. The v(amax) accounted for around 50% of the variability in performance whereas other physiological variables selected in this study were responsible, at best, for approximately 39%. The results presented in this study suggested that v(amax) was a useful indicator of middle-distance running performance in sub-elite young runners with similar performance levels as well as in top elite athletes.