Control of Training in Middle- and Long-Distance Running by Means of the Individual Anaerobic Threshold*

Abstract

It was examined in 24 highly trained endurance athletes (middle- and long-distance runners, triathletes) whether concrete training recommendations can be made for endurance training and a speed session program (5 × 1000 m with 4.5-min breaks) by means of incrementally graded treadmill exercise with determination of the individual anaerobic threshold (IAT). The intensities of the different training sessions were decided upon using percentages of speed at the IAT and controlled by lactate determinations. The endurance runs were differentiated by terrain gradation and the speed sessions by climatic conditions. There is a significant correlation between the behaviour of lactate during training sessions and the IAT or percentages of speed at the IAT determined on a treadmill (endurance run flat terrain: r = 0.79, n= 13, p < 0.01; endurance run graded terrain: r = 0.72, ? = 20, p < 0.001; 5 × 1000 m under good conditions: r = 0.97, r = 9, p < 0.001; 5 × 1000 m under poor conditions: r = 0.91, n = 7, p < 0.001). Both terrain gradation (endurance runs) and poor climatic conditions (speed sessions) lead to a left shifting of the regression line with unchanged slope. Conclusively the IAT determined during a treadmill exercise allows a sufficiently precise control of training both for endurance runs performed with different intensities and for the 5 × 1000-m speed session program. However, the external conditions have to be considered in order to provide correct training recommendations.

Key words

Lactate - individual anaerobic threshold - training - middle- and long-distance running