Endurance running performance can be predicted by maximal oxygen uptake
(V̇O2max), the fractional utilisation of oxygen uptake
(%V̇O2max) and running economy at lactate
threshold (REOBLA). This study aims to assess maximal lactate
accumulation rate (ċLamax) in terms of improving running
performance prediction in trained athletes. Forty-four competitive female and
male runners/triathletes performed an incremental step test, a 100-m
sprint test and a ramp test to determine their metabolic profile. Stepwise
linear regression was used to predict 5000-m time trial performance. Split times
were recorded every 200-m to examine the ‘finishing kick’.
Females had a slower t5k and a lower V̇O2max,
ċLamax, ‘finishing kick’ and
REOBLA. Augmenting Joyner’s model by means of
ċLamax explained an additional 4.4% of variance
in performance. When performing the same analysis exclusively for males,
ċLamax was not included. ċLamax
significantly correlated with %V̇O2max
(r=-0.439, p=0.003) and the ‘finishing kick’
(r=0.389, p=0.010). ċLamax allows for
significant (yet minor) improvements in 5000-m performance prediction in a
mixed-sex group. This margin of improvement might differ in middle-distance
events. Due to the relationship to the ‘finishing kick’,
ċLamax might be related to individual pacing strategies,
which should be assessed in future research.