Relationship between V̇O_2max and repeated sprint ability using non-motorised treadmill ergometry

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O₂max) and repeated sprint ability (RSA) using non-motorised treadmill ergometry. 

Methods: Ten male participants (mean [standard deviation] V̇O_2max: 57.5 [2.1] mL·kg ^-1·min^-1) completed a RSA test (10, 6-s sprints with 34-s recovery) on a non-motorised treadmill. Oxygen consumption (V̇O₂) and heart rate (HR) were measured during the RSA test and the decrement of performance fatigue (%_d) was calculated for the performance indices mean maximal speed (MxSp) and average power output (AvPO). 

Results: There were significant relationships between V̇O_2max and the %_d MxSp (r=-0.75, P<0.05) and V̇O_2max and the %_d AvPO (r=-0.69, P<0.05). There were also significant relationships between V̇O_2max and HR recovery (r=0.56, P<0.05) and V̇O_2max and V̇O₂ recovery (r=0.7, P<0.01). However, while no significant relationships were reported between HR recovery and %_d MxSp (r= 0.45, P>0.05) and HR recovery and %_d AvPO (r=-0.52, P>0.05), significant relationships were observed between V̇O₂ recovery and %_d MxSp (r=-0.75, P<0.05) and between V̇O₂ recovery and %_d AvPO (r=-0.77, P<0.05). 

Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that V̇O _2max may be an important factor determining RSA during repeated, high-intensity running-based exercise, such as field hockey, rugby and soccer.