The application of the critical power construct to endurance exercise

Critical power (CP) is a theoretical construct reflecting the highest work rate that can be maintained by continuous aerobic energy resynthesis for an infinite period of time. In practice, however, the CP estimate derived from mathematical modelling usually leads to exhaustion within 1 h. While previous research has used traditional measures of aerobic fitness to validate CP, there is disagreement in the literature as to whether CP reflects a physiological steady or a non-steady state. Furthermore, the practical applications of the CP construct have received limited research attention. Therefore, the purpose of this thesis was to clarify the applicability of CP to endurance exercise.