Berthoin, S., Dupont, G., Van Praagh, E., & Baquet, G. (2006). Applying the critical velocity concept to high-intensity intermittent performances in children's activity. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 38(5), Supplement abstract 1489.

This study investigated if the “critical velocity” concept could be applied high-intensity intermittent exercises in children. Children (N = 11; 8 to 11 years old) underwent a maximal graded field test to determine peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and maximal aerobic velocity. During the three following sessions, they randomly performed three intermittent runs (120%, 130%, and 140% of maximal aerobic velocity) until exhaustion. Intermittent exercises consisted of repeated 15-s runs each separated by a 15-s passive recovery interval.

A significant relationship was found for means values between distance to exhaustion and time to exhaustion. Significant relationships were found between VO2peak, critical velocity, and maximal aerobic velocity. Critical velocity was significantly related to VO2peak but accounted for only 47% of its variance.

Implication. The critical velocity model can successfully be used in children performing short high-intensity intermittent exercises.

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