Accuracy of training recommendations based on a treadmill multistage incremental exercise test

Competitive runners will occasionally undergo exercise in a laboratory setting to obtain predictive and prescriptive information regarding their performance. The present research aimed to assess whether the physiological demands of lab-based treadmill running (TM) can simulate that of over-ground (OG) running using a commonly used protocol. Fifteen healthy volunteers with a weekly mileage of ≥ 20 km over the past 6 months and treadmill experience participated in this cross-sectional study. Two stepwise incremental tests until volitional exhaustion was performed in a fixed order within one week in an Outpatient Clinic research laboratory and outdoor athletic track. Running velocity (IAT(speed)), heart rate (IAT(HR)) and lactate concentration at the individual anaerobic threshold (IAT(bLa)) were primary endpoints. Additionally, distance covered (DIST), maximal heart rate (HR(max)), maximal blood lactate concentration (bLa(max)) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) at IAT(speed) were analyzed. IAT(speed), DIST and HR(max) were not statistically significantly different between conditions, whereas bLa(max) and RPE at IAT(speed) showed statistical significance (p < 0.05). Apart from RPE at IAT(speed), IAT(speed), DIST, HR(max) and bLa(max) strongly correlate between conditions (r = 0.815–0.988). High reliability between conditions provides strong evidence to suggest that running on a treadmill are physiologically comparable to that of OG and that training recommendations and be made with assurance.