HR at the second ventilatory threshold (VT2) was found to occur at 93.5 ± 2.5% of peak HR, varying significantly between sexes and performance levels in runners.
What are the reference values for heart rate and speed zones at ventilatory thresholds in long-distance runners, and how do they vary by sex and performance level?
This study establishes precise, evidence-based reference ranges for heart rate and speed zones in long-distance runners, highlighting the necessity of individualizing training prescriptions based on sex and performance level.
Absolute Event Rate: 0% vs 0%
Background: This study aimed to provide reference values for estimating training intensities in long-distance runners based on progressive incremental tests, considering differences related to sex and performance level. Methods: A total of 1411 endurance-trained runners (819 men and 592 women) completed a standardized treadmill protocol with gas exchange analysis to determine ventilatory thresholds and peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak). Heart rate (HR) and running speed at each threshold were expressed relative to their peak values. Results: HR at second ventilatory threshold (VT2) occurred at 93.5 ± 2.5% of HR peak, and HR at first ventilatory threshold at 85.1 ± 4.6%. The relative running speeds at VT2 and VT1 corresponded to 87.6 ± 3.9% and 73.9 ± 5.5% of the speed at VO2peak, respectively. In men, beginners exhibited higher relative HR and VO2 values at the ventilatory thresholds than elite runners. In contrast, women displayed higher and more stable relative values across performance levels. Conclusions: These findings establish precise, evidence-based reference ranges derived from a large cohort of runners and highlight the need to consider sex and performance level when estimating exercise intensities. Individualized physiological assessment remains essential for accurate training prescription and performance optimization.
Esteve-Lanao et al. (Wed,) reported a other. HR at the second ventilatory threshold (VT2) was found to occur at 93.5 ± 2.5% of peak HR, varying significantly between sexes and performance levels in runners.