Maximal oxygen uptake during field running does not exceed that measured during treadmill exercise

Abstract.

Modern ergometric equipment enables the simulation of laboratory maximal oxygen uptake (V˙O_2max) testing in the field. Therefore, it was investigated whether the improved event specificity on the track might lead to higher V˙O_2max measurements in running. Identical protocols were used on the treadmill and on the track (speed was indicated by a computer-driven flashing light system). Ambulatory measurements of gas exchange were carried out throughout both tests, which were executed in randomized order. There were no significant differences (P=0.71) in V˙O_2max between treadmill [4.65 (0.51) ml·min^–1] and field tests [4.63 (0.55) ml·min^–1]. However, the test duration differed significantly (P<0.001) by approximately 5%: treadmill 691 (39) s; field test 727 (42) s. With the exception of maximum heart rate (HR_max; significantly higher in the field with P=0.02) all criteria for the degree of effort were similar between the two tests. However, the difference in HR_max at less than 2 beats·min^–1, was practically negligible. Submaximal measurements of oxygen uptake and minute ventilation were significantly higher on the treadmill (P<0.001 for both parameters). In summary, field tests with incremental running protocols do not result in higher V˙O_2max measurements compared to laboratory treadmill exercise. A better running economy on the track results in higher maximal velocities and longer exercise durations being sustained. The determination of V˙O_2max is not a reasonable application for ambulatory gas exchange measurements because laboratory values are not surpassed.