Resumen

PUPO, Juliano Dal et al. Physiological and neuromuscular indices to determine performance of sprinters and middle distance runners. Rev. Bras. Ciênc. Esporte [online]. 2012, vol.34, n.1, pp. 11-26. ISSN 0101-3289.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0101-32892012000100002.

The aim of this study was to compare physiological and neuromuscular indices of runners and predict their performance. Thirteen sprinters (SP) and 11 middle distance runners (MD) performed the following tests: 1) performance in 400 (P400) and 800 m (P800) and lactate peak (LACmax); 2) determination of VO₂max, velocity at VO₂max-vVO₂max and velocity at LAn-vLAn; 3) time limit; 4) maximum accumulated oxygen deficit-MAOD; and 5) counter movement jump (CMJ). The SP showed higher values of MAOD, time of lactate peak, height and velocity at CMJ. VO₂max, vVO₂max and vLAn were higher for MD. It is concluded that SPR develop higher anaerobic capacity, and MD have a higher fitness aerobic level. The P400 was determined by the association of LACmax, VO₂max and CMJ, while LACmax and vVO₂max explained the P800.

Palabras llave : runners; aerobic fitness; anaerobic fitness; muscle power.