[51010]

<p style=”text-align: left;”>Hi all,</p>
I have a question about the AnT test in the First Ultra training plan. The guidance states that this should be conducted on a treadmill of 10-15% incline, depending on the incline of the target event. However, I conducted the AeT test on a treadmill using only 2% incline. Am I right in thinking that I should conduct the AnT test on a 2% incline treadmill in order to better compare and contrast with the AeT test?

As a secondary question, I would be very curious to hear why the suggestion is for most people to use a higher incline for AnT than AeT testing. Am I right in understanding that this is done to allow less well trained individuals to maintain a higher heart rate if they cannot sustain a high effort run? Is it also correct that, for more well trained individuals, a running AnT test is preferable (if the goal race is running)?

Thank you very much, any insight would be much appreciated.

[Scott Johnston]

Sorry for the slow reply to your very good questions.

Do the AnT on the terrain that simulates your goal event.  For most mountain runners we have used 15% to 30% depending on the athlete level and having access to an incline trainer.  For mixing terrain you may need to do both the AeT and AnT tests on flattish and steep grades.   Some people will find these thresholds to be the same for steep and flat. But, others will see a big difference depending on grade.

We suggest the steeper incline for the AnT test because it simulates the terrain and grades where most mountain runners are hitting their limit.

Scott

 

[51010]

Thanks a lot Scott, that’s very useful information. Over time, I will try to test both thresholds on flat and on inclines.

[Author]

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