variational transition state theory

This expression is applied to modifications of conventional transition state theory in which the position of the dividing surface in the potential-energy surface is varied. The rate is calculated with the surface at various positions, and the lowest rate calculated is taken to be closest to the truth.
Source:
PAC, 1996, 68, 149 (A glossary of terms used in chemical kinetics, including reaction dynamics (IUPAC Recommendations 1996)) on page 190