A comparison of aerobic capacity in long-distance runners and triathletes with the same level of running performance

The purpose of this study was to clarify the aerobic fitness of triathletes comparing with long-distance runners with the same level of running performance. Thirteen male university endurance athletes were divided into two groups ; long-distance runners and triathletes. The subjects performed maximal and submaximal treadmill running test to assess their maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and running economy (RE). The VO2max (ml/kg/min) in triathletes was lower than that in the runners (p = 0.08, d = 1.18). The RE (ml/kg/km) in triathletes was higher than that in the runners (p = 0.05, d = 1.34). This study suggests that the difference of aerobic fitness between two homogeneous groups is caused by running form and the training with preceding exercise.