Determining Validity of Critical Power Estimated Using a Three-Minute All-Out Test in Hot Environments

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of heat on the validity of end-test power (EP) derived from a 3-min all-out test (3MT), which is considered as an alternative method for determining the conventional critical power. Twelve male cyclists were required to perform incremental exercise tests (IET) and 3MTs in both high temperature (HT; 35 °C) and thermoneutral temperature (NT; 22 °C) environments. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), and first and second ventilatory thresholds (VT1 and VT2, respectively) against the power output (wVO2max, wVT1, and wVT2) were measured during IETs. EP was recorded during the 3MTs. A significant correlation was observed between wVT2 and EP under NT (r = 0.674, p < 0.05) and under HT (r = 0.672, p < 0.05). However, wVO2max, wVT1, wVT2, and EP were significantly higher in NT than in HT (p < 0.05). In conclusion, although the physiological stress induced by HT might impair exercise performance, the EP derived from 3MT can validly estimate wVT2 under HT conditions.