Author(s): BOWEN, M., VONDERSCHER, M. ; BUSSENEAU, P.F. ; CORBEX, E. ; SAMOZINO, P. ; MOREL, B., Institution: SAVOIE MONT BLANC UNIVERSITY, Country: FRANCE, Abstract-ID: 2315

INTRODUCTION:
The Force-Velocity-Endurance (FoVE) model [1] describes an individual’s force production capacities as a function of movement velocity and exercise duration [2]. This three-dimensional profile, assessed via a 3-minute all-out test modified with regular force-velocity measurements (SAVOI test: Sinusoidal All-Out by Variation Of Intensity), enables the exploration of muscular qualities, locomotor performance, and underlying physiological mechanisms. This multidimensional approach is particularly relevant for emerging high-intensity disciplines such as Ski Mountaineering (SkiMo), which has recently been recognized as a new Olympic sport for the Winter Games. From the FoVE profile, critical power Pc can be decomposed into a critical force component Fc, and a critical velocity component Vc. Previous results showed no correlation between Vc and Fc, suggesting different physiological mechanisms govern them [3]. To optimise performance, specific training strategies for Fc or Vc must be adapted for each athlete. Identifying the specific physiological determinants would provide the foundation for tailoring interventions to meet athletes' performance needs.
METHODS:
Athletes from the French National Ski Mountaineering Team (n=19) volunteered for this study. FoVE profiles were assessed using a cycling SAVOI test (Sinusoidal All-Out by Variation Of Intensity), followed by a 90-minute evaluation of blood lactate concentration [La] kinetics [4].
RESULTS:
Among elite ski mountaineering athletes, Pc was correlated with both maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and lactate elimination capacity (gamma2). Fc was only correlated with 1/gamma2 (r = -0.71), while Vc correlated exclusively with VO2max (r = 0.84), suggesting that distinct physiological systems underpin each FoVE dimension. Furthermore, the integrative index of the energy tank, WACmax, was correlated (r = 0.74) with the peak blood lactate concentration ([La]peak) post-exercise. In addition to these physiological determinants, Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM) revealed a strong correlation between a specific area of the FoVE surface and overall locomotor performance (r = 0.80).
CONCLUSION:
These findings demonstrate the relevance of the FoVE model as both a robust performance predictor and a precise reflection of individual physiological profiles. By identifying performance-limiting factors and their specific physiological foundations, such as the link between Vc and VO2max, or Fc and lactate elimination—FoVE profiling opens new perspectives for individualized and targeted training strategies in high-level locomotor sports.
[1] Bowen et al. (2024) Medecine/sciences
[2] Morel et al. (2023) ECSS.
[3] Morel et al. (2024) ECSS.
[4] Zouloumian et al. (1981) EJAP