Q&A #20 - Testing for half and full distance triathlon: are typical 20-minute tests relevant, and are there better options?

Q&A #20 - Testing for half and full distance triathlon: are typical 20-minute tests relevant, and are there better options?  

• How relevant are typical field tests (20-minute bike and run Time Trials, 400 + 200 m Critical Swim Speed test) for half and full Ironman athletes? 
• How skewed are these tests by athletes' anaerobic capacity? 
• Can and should Muscular Endurance be tested? 
• What is the role of race intensity training, if it isn't to improve threshold or VO2max?
• How important is VO2max (aerobic capacity) anyway for long distance triathlon?
• The little-known but massively important Ironman training and testing weapon: Lactate Building Rate, VLaMax  

LINKS AND RESOURCES:  

• That Triathlon Show website 
• Coaching
• Training Plans
• Intermediate Ironman 20-week Training Plan (use coupon code "60" for 60% off until 10th February): 
• • Running pace, bike power version
  • Running pace, bike heart rate version
  • Running power and bike power version
• INSCYD software
• INSCYD Boulder Workshop - Youtube video

    RATE AND REVIEW:   If you enjoy the show, please help me out by subscribing, rating and reviewing.      CONTACT:   Want to send feedback, questions or just chat? Email me at mikael@scientifictriathlon.com or connect on Twitter - my handle is @SciTriat.