Determination of maximum volumes of training at different percentages of anaerobic speed reserve

Aim: The purpose of this study was to compare the maximum applicable durations (volumes) of running exercises performed at different intensities determined b y various percentages of Anaerobic Speed Reserve (ASR), calculated from the Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS) and Maximal Sprint Speed (MSH) values. Materials and Methods; The study included 17 male football players (age: 18.15 ± 0.53 years; height: 178.75 ± 5.62 cm; body weight: 68.13 ± 6.57 kg; training age: 7.25 ± 0.53 years) who trained at least three times per week. MAS and MSH values were determined using the 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test (30-15 IFT) and the 40-meter sprint test, respectively. Individual ASR values were calculated, and running intensities were set at MAS and 25%, 30%, and 35% of ASR. The duration for which each participant could sustain running at these intensities was recorded in seconds. Data analysis was conducted using ANOVA and Pearson correlation tests via SPSS 23.0 software. Results: The running duration at MAS (154.94 ± 44.11 s) was significantly longer compared to ASR 25% (88.94 ± 20.31 s), ASR 30% (74 ± 16.65 s), and ASR 35% (65.06 ± 16.50 s) conditions (p<0.05). Additionally, as the intensity based on ASR increased, a significant decline in performance duration was observed. The effect size (ηp² = 0.798) indicated a strong difference among the test conditions. Conclusion: Running durations at different percentages of ASR significantly vary based on intensity, with higher ASR percentages resulting in shorter time to exhaustion. These findings suggest that ASR is a useful parameter for individualized load prescription in high-intensity intermittent training, especially for football players. It is also suggested that volume, like intensity, should be individualized.