Conconi Test

Identify the speed at the aerobic/anaerobic transition threshold (deflection point).

Test Objective

The Conconi Test is a progressive exercise test designed to determine the heart rate at the anaerobic threshold (HRAT) as well as the speed at the aerobic ↔ anaerobic transition point. It is primarily used by runners, cyclists, and triathletes to individualize their training.

Test Protocol

  • Type: Progressive, continuous.
  • Duration: Approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Surface: Athletics track or treadmill.
  • Required Equipment:
    • Heart rate monitor watch or ECG.
    • Stopwatch.
    • Distance or speed markers.
  • Procedure:
    1. The subject runs at a moderate initial speed (~8–10 km/h).
    2. The speed increases by 0.5 to 1 km/h every 200 meters or every minute, in a progressive and linear manner.
    3. The heart rate is recorded at each stage (in real-time or afterward).
    4. The test continues until progressive exhaustion is reached, without any abrupt stops.

Results Analysis

The data is plotted on a graph: heart rate (HR) versus speed.

  • Normally, the HR increases linearly with the speed.
  • At a certain point, the curve deflects or flattens out: this is the Conconi point, which corresponds to the anaerobic threshold.
  • The speed and heart rate at which this point occurs are then determined.
  • Example: If at 14.5 km/h, the heart rate stops increasing linearly ←
    • Threshold Speed = 14.5 km/h
    • Threshold Heart Rate = 172 bpm

Practical Applications

The test is used for:

  • Planning training zones:
    • Below Threshold (<) = Aerobic work (base building, recovery).
    • At Threshold (≈) = Threshold endurance.
    • Above Threshold (>) = Anaerobic work (interval training, splits).
  • Tracking performance progression over time.
  • Reducing the risk of overtraining.

✅ Advantages

  • Non-invasive (does not require blood lactate sampling).
  • Relatively easy to set up and administer.
  • Can be performed in the field or in a laboratory.
  • Provides highly useful data for training.

⚠️ Limitations and Recommendations

  • Interpreting the deflection point on the graph can be subjective.
  • Less precise than blood lactate tests or direct oxygen consumption tests.
  • Must be performed under standardized conditions to be reliable.
  • Requires a highly consistent pacing strategy and accurate HR measurement.

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