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VDOT
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VDOT is a measure of running ability and is calculated from a race performance based on [[Jack Daniels Running Formula]]. The number reflects the [[VO2max|V̇O<sub>2</sub>max]] of a runner with average [[Running Economy]]. It is possible for a runner's actual [[VO2max|V̇O<sub>2</sub>max]] to vary from the VDOT measure; two runners could have the same VDOT and one runner could have a higher [[VO2max|V̇O<sub>2</sub>max]] with a poorer [[Running Economy]], the other lower [[VO2max|V̇O<sub>2</sub>max]] with a better [[Running Economy]]. For most purposes, VDOT is more useful than [[VO2max|V̇O<sub>2</sub>max]] as it reflects actual running performance rather than a laboratory measure.
Note that VDOT is not an acronym, but an abbreviation of [[VO2max|V̇O<sub>2</sub>max]] which is properly pronounced "V-dot-O<sub>2</sub>max" (note the dot above the V).
=VDOT and Jack Daniels Running Formula=
VDOT is at the heart of [[Jack Daniels Running Formula]]. Jack Daniels' plans are based around calculating the ideal training paces based on previous race performance. The faster you are in a race, the faster you need to train. Jack Daniels book provides tables of race performances to use to look up a VDOT number. This VDOT number is then used to look up training paces for his plans. I would recommend reading [[Jack Daniels Running Formula]], but the calculations are easier with the [[VDOT Calculator]].