Analysis of psychological effects of the presence of peers and space perception during the performance of the twelve minutes run test (12-MRT) in estimating maximal oxygen consumption

The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of the presence of peers, and a reduced space, in estimating maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) during the twelve minutes run test (12-MRT). Thirty one athletes participated in three tests: Achieving alone the 12-MRT of Cooper on a 400 m track (Alone); Achieving in groups of three the 12-MRT on a 400 m track (In-Group); completing in groups of three the 12-MRT on a 200 m track (Short-Track). At the end of each test, the rate of perceived exertion (RPE), Heart rate (HR) and blood lactate [La] were determined. VO₂max was higher during In-Group compared to Short-Track (p< 0.05). VO₂max was underestimated by 4% in Alone and by 9.3% in Short-Track. Negative correlation was found between VO₂max and RPE (r = -0.61, p < 0.0001). No significant differences were found in HR and [La] between tests. RPE was lower (p = 0.4110) during In-Group compared to Alone, and compared to Short-Track (p = 0.0955). Running in a group elicits positive effect which improves VO₂max, whereas a reduced space (200 m) impairs significantly VO₂max.