Performance prediction and athlete categorization using the anaerobic speed reserve in 400m sprinters.

OBJECTIVES

To provide an integrative framework of endurance performance, the anaerobic speed reserve gained increasing popularity in middle-distance running. The present study investigated athlete profiles and performance predications based on the anaerobic speed reserve framework in 400m athletes.

DESIGN

Descriptive laboratory study.

METHODS

Maximal oxygen uptake, lactate threshold (vL4), maximal sprinting speed, maximal aerobic speed, and speed reserve ratio (speed reserve ratio; maximal sprinting speed:maximal aerobic speed) of national level and elite German 400m-sprinters (n = 13 females, age [yrs]: 20.8 ± 3.1, personal best (PB400) [s]: 55.1 ± 3.0 & n = 5 males, age: 22.8 ± 3.1, PB400: 46.7 ± 1.0) were assessed. A prediction model for 400m performance was computed via stepwise multiple regression. K-means clustering was calculated based on the speed reserve ratio.

RESULTS

Maximal sprinting speed, maximal aerobic speed and vL4 showed moderate to large negative bivariate correlations with 400m performance (-0.61 < r < -0.94; p ≤ 0.008). Backward stepwise regression revealed maximal sprinting speed and maximal aerobic speed as strong predictors for 400m performance (adjusted R2 = 0.90, standard error of the estimate = 1.447 s [2.6 %]). K-means clustering revealed two distinct subgroups along the speed reserve ratio-continuum (sprint-type: speed reserve ratio ≥1.81; endurance-type: speed reserve ratio ≤1.77).

CONCLUSIONS

Maximal sprinting speed and maximal aerobic speed are powerful predictors for 400m performance, with vL4 also being associated with 400m performance. Speed reserve ratio calculation enables a differentiation between 400m sprint-type and endurance-type athletes. The interplay of maximal sprinting speed and maximal aerobic speed enables a broader understanding of the contributing factors to 400m performance. These parameters may support coaches in programming training tailored to individual needs during different training periods.