MAS Test

One of the most common tests used for running activity is the maximal aerobic speed (MAS) test. This test includes both VO2 Max and economy dimensions and  is related to performance from 1500 to 3000 metres. It is useful to discriminate a population, to prescribe training intensities and to analyse the effects of a training program.

 The initial speed is set between 8 and 12 km/h according to the initial level of the participant. For beginners it’s better to start off at the lowest speed (8km/h) and advanced runners should start at 12 km/h. The speed is then increased by 1 km/h every 2 minutes until the participants cannot maintain the speed.

The last speed sustained for at least 2 minutes is considered the speed associated with VO2max, also called maximal aerobic speed (MAS). This speed at the last completed stage is increased by 0.5 km/h if the subject is able to run a half stage. From the MAS, it is easy to estimate VO2max since it corresponds to 3.5X MAS.