Energy systems for 400m dash

[kitkat1]

@ASheaff

Yes, we are in agreement. My point was that developing oxidative abilities allows for extended glycolytic contributions rather than diminished.

From an energetic standpoint, I believe the benefits of aerobic training for the 400m athlete are primarily two-fold-

1. Increasing the capillary network to aid in the oxidation and removal of waste products, as you mentioned, thus allowing for glycolysis to continue to function at a high rate.

2. Improve the maximal rate of ATP synthesis through oxidative processes such that when glycolytic ATP production does inevitably slow, the drop-off is less severe. All things being equal, the higher the maximal rate of oxidative ATP synthesis, the less the drop-off.

Of course, the trick is to develop these adaptations without significantly compromising improvements in speed.

In regards to knowing the anaerobic threshold, if valid and reliable testing can easily be performed, more information as to the state of the organism would almost always be of benefit. I’m just not sure if we should specifically aim to improve the anaerobic threshold for this type of athlete.

This is an entertaining debate which I have enjoyed reading because of the reasoned and well argued contributions of several, including ASheaff. I think it is odd that this member is still on zero rep points, c’mon you lot, give credit where it’s (over)due

Now, a couple of other thoughts:

1. the “borderline” from aerobic to anaerobic will continue to move for better or worse according to the volume, intensity, density and frequency of training.

2. what is the relevance of 400m-event specific activity to contributing to raising the anaerobic/aerobic threshhold? Do we get better 400m results or worse from training occasionally or frequently at 400m race pace?

3. how is any/all of this wisdom to be practically applied in order to help the 400m runner get faster? What is the optimal programme model: L2S, S2L, S+L (concurrent)?

:eek: