Zacharogiannis, E., Paradisis, G., Tziortzis, S., & Smirniotou, A. (2006). Metabolic and performance profile of pacing at peak VO2 velocity. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 38(5), Supplement abstract 2580.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of pacing strategies at peak VO2 velocity on performance and selected metabolic parameters. Trained Ss (N = 12) performed an incremental test to determine vVO2max and a maximal run at vVO2max at least 48 hours after. In random order two days after vVO2max tests, Ss performed the second or third maximal runs. The second trial started with 1km/h faster than vVO2max velocity (+1vVO2max) for half of the duration of the vVO2max trial with the rest of the test 1km/h slower than vVO2max velocity. The third pacing trial started 1km/h slower than vVO2max velocity (-1vVO2max) for half of the duration of the vVO2max trial with the rest of the test 1km/h faster than vVO2max velocity.

The "going out faster" pacing strategy produced a significantly longer distance than the "going out slower" trial. Post exercise blood lactate concentration and accumulated oxygen deficit were significantly lower after the fast trial than in the slow.

Implication. If the duration of maximal effort varies between 5 and 12 minutes. A slightly faster pace in the initial stages of exercise will produce better performance. There are also indications that anaerobic metabolism overall is less stressed with an early slightly faster pace and that decreased metabolic acidosis may explain improved performance.

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