Running Critical Power: A Comparison Of Different Theoretical Models

Abstract

This study aimed (i) to compare the critical power (CP) and work capacity over CP (W´) values reported by the different CP models available in current analysis software packages (Golden Cheetah and Stryd platform), (ii) to locate the CP values in the power-duration curve (PDC), and (iii) to determine the influence of the CP model used on the W´ balance. Fifteen trained athletes performed four time trials (i. e., 3, 5, 10, 20 minutes) to define their PDC through different CP models: work-time (CP_work), power-1/time (CP_1/time), Morton hyperbolic (CP_hyp), Stryd platform (CP_stryd), and Bioenergetic Golden Cheetah (CP_Cheetah). Three additional time trials were performed: two to locate the CP values in the PDC (30 and 60 minutes), and one to test the validity of the W’ balance model (4 minutes). Significant differences (p<0.001) were reported between models for the estimated parameters (CP, W´). CP_cheetah was associated with the power output developed between 10 to 20 minutes, CP_1/time, CP_stryd CP_work and CP_hyp. The W´ reported by the three-parameter CP models overestimated the actual 4 minutes time to exhaustion, with CP_work (0.48 [− 0.19 to 1.16] minutes); and CP_1/time (0.40 [− 0.13 to 0.94] minutes) being the only valid models (p≥0.240).

Key words

exercise testing - endurance training - endurance performance

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