Determination of the anaerobic threshold and maximal lactate steady state speed in equines using the lactate minimum speed protocol

Determination of speed and assessment of conditioning in horses submitted to a lactate minimum test-alternative approaches

The maximal lactate steady state (MLSS) is a well-known gold standard method for determining the aerobic capacity of athletic horses. Owing to its high cost and complex execution, there is a search for standardized exercise tests that can predict this value in a single session. One of the methods described for this purpose is the lactate minimum test (LMT), which could be more accurate despite being adequate to predict MLSS. This study aimed to examine the impact of training on the speed corresponding to lactate minimum speed (LMS) and to apply new mathematical methods to evaluate the fitness level of horses based on the curve obtained by the LMT. Ten Arabian horses underwent a 6-week training program based on LMS calculated by second-degree polynomial regression (LMSP). In addition, the LMS was also determined by visual inspection (LMSV), bi-segmented linear regression (LMSBI) and spline regression (LMSS). From the curve obtained during the LMT, it was possible to calculate angles α, β and ω, as well as the total area under the curve (AUCTOTAL) before (AUCPRELMS) and after (AUCPOSLMS) the LMS. The methods for determining the LMS were evaluated by ANOVA, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and effect size (ES) by Cohen's d test. The Pearson correlation coefficient (r) between the proposed LMS determination methods and other mathematical methods was also calculated. Despite showing a good correlation (ICC >0.7), the LMS determination methods differed from each other (p < 0.05), albeit without a significant difference resulting from conditioning. There were reductions in α:β ratio, angle α, and AUCPOSTLMS, with the latter indicating lower lactate accumulation in the incremental phase of LMT after conditioning, in addition to an improvement in the animals' aerobic capacity. Considering that the most common methods for determining the LMS are applicable yet with low sensitivity for conditioning assessment, the approaches proposed herein can aid in analyzing the aerobic capacity of horses subjected to LMT. The mathematical models presented in this paper have the potential to be applied in human lactate-guided training program trials with a comparable study basis.

Effect of Lactate Minimum Speed-Guided Training on the Fluid, Electrolyte and Acid-Base Status of Horses

The effect of lactate minimum speed (LMS)-guided training on horses' homeostasis is still unknown. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of an LMS-guided training program on the fluid, electrolyte and acid-base status of horses. Ten untrained Arabian horses were submitted to an LMS test on a treadmill before and after six weeks of training. The training intensity was 80% of the LMS in the first three sessions and 100% of the LMS in the other sessions. The venous blood was collected before (T-1) and after (T-2) training at rest, during and after the LMS test for lactate, pH, pCO2, HCO3-, and electrolyte measurements. The LMS and strong ion difference (SID4) were calculated. A mild increase in the mean values (p > 0.05) was observed at rest in T-2 in comparison with T-1 in the following variables: pH (from 7.436 ± 0.013 to 7.460 ± 0.012), pCO2 (from 42.95 ± 1.58 to 45.06 ± 0.81 mmHg), HCO3- (from 27.01 ± 1.02 to 28.91 ± 0.86 mmol/L), and SID4 (from 33.42 ± 1.45 to 35.06 ± 2.94 mmol/L). During T-2, these variables were more stable than during T-1. Despite the improvement in fitness, the LMS did not indicate a significant difference (from 5.40 ± 0.55 to 5.52 ± 0.20 m/s). The results confirmed that the LMS-guided training program had a positive impact on the horses' acid-base status, although some adaptations are still required to improve their fitness.

A systematic review of exercise protocols applied to athymic mice in tumor-related experiments

Athymic mice are unable to produce T-cells and are then characterized as immunodeficient. This characteristic makes these animals ideal for tumor biology and xenograft research. New non-pharmacological therapeutics are required owing to the exponential increase in global oncology costs over the last 10 years and the high cancer mortality rate. In this sense, physical exercise is regarded as a relevant component of cancer treatment. However, the scientific community lacks information regarding the effect of manipulating training variables on cancer in humans, and experiments with athymic mice. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to address the exercise protocols used in tumor-related experiments using athymic mice. The PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched without restrictions on published data. A combination of key terms such as athymic mice, nude mice, physical activity, physical exercise, and training was used. The database search retrieved 852 studies (PubMed, 245; Web of Science, 390; and Scopus, 217). After title, abstract, and full-text screening, 10 articles were eligible. Based on the included studies, this report highlights the considerable divergences in the training variables adopted for this animal model. No studies have reported the determination of a physiological marker for intensity individualization. Future studies are recommended to explore whether invasive procedures can result in pathogenic infections in athymic mice. Moreover, time-consuming tests cannot be applied to experiments with specific characteristics such as tumor implantation. In summary, non-invasive, low-cost, and time-saving approaches can suppress these limitations and improve the welfare of these animals during experiments.

Effect of Lactate Minimum Speed-Guided Conditioning on Selected Blood Parameters of Horses

During exercise, equines can suffer severe water and electrolyte imbalances depending on the intensity and duration. In this sense, conditioning aims to promote adaptations to the organism in order to maintain cardiovascular and thermoregulatory stability during exertion. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of conditioning guided by lactate minimum speed (LMS) test on the blood osmolality of horses. We hypothesized that after conditioning the blood osmolality would vary less during exercise and that LMS could be used in equine conditioning program. Ten Arabian horses were evaluated before (ET 1) and after (ET 2) 6 weeks of conditioning. The conditioning intensity was established from the LMS during ET 1. The blood was obtained at rest and during the ETs. An increase in LMS and a decrease in lactate were seen in individual horses; however, these differences were not significant at a group level. No change in blood osmolality was observed when comparing the ETs. The plasma volume remained unchanged in ET 2. The conditioning guided by LMS improved the animals' fitness, which was evidenced by the lower lactate production in ET 2. The fact that the osmolality kept unchanged proves the effectiveness of the osmotic blood balance during exercise, as its control involves the interaction of different systems. Body adaptations occurred with conditioning, providing greater homeostasis control since the plasma volume remained stable in ET 2. It was concluded that the LMS test can be used to define an effective equine conditioning program even though some adjustments are still necessary.

Detection of Horse Locomotion Modifications Due to Training with Inertial Measurement Units: A Proof-of-Concept

Detecting fatigue during training sessions would help riders and trainers to optimize their training. It has been shown that fatigue could affect movement patterns. Inertial measurement units (IMUs) are wearable sensors that measure linear accelerations and angular velocities, and can also provide orientation estimates. These sensors offer the possibility of a non-invasive and continuous monitoring of locomotion during training sessions. However, the indicators extracted from IMUs and their ability to show these locomotion changes are not known. The present study aims at defining which kinematic variables and indicators could highlight locomotion changes during a training session expected to be particularly demanding for the horses. Heart rate and lactatemia were measured to attest for the horse’s fatigue following the training session. Indicators derived from acceleration, angular velocities, and orientation estimates obtained from nine IMUs placed on 10 high-level dressage horses were compared before and after a training session using a non-parametric Wilcoxon paired test. These indicators were correlation coefficients (CC) and root mean square deviations (RMSD) comparing gait cycle kinematics measured before and after the training session and also movement smoothness estimates (SPARC, LDLJ). Heart rate and lactatemia measures did not attest to a significant physiological fatigue. However, the statistics show an effect of the training session (p < 0.05) on many CC and RMSD computed on the kinematic variables, indicating a change in the locomotion with the training session as well as on SPARCs indicators (p < 0.05), and revealing here a change in the movement smoothness both in canter and trot. IMUs seem then to be able to track locomotion pattern modifications due to training. Future research should be conducted to be able to fully attribute the modifications of these indicators to fatigue.

Profiling the Aerobic Window of Horses in Response to Training by Means of a Modified Lactate Minimum Speed Test: Flatten the Curve

There is a great need for objective external training load prescription and performance capacity evaluation in equestrian disciplines. Therefore, reliable standardised exercise tests (SETs) are needed. Classic SETs require maximum intensities with associated risks to deduce training loads from pre-described cut-off values. The lactate minimum speed (LMS) test could be a valuable alternative. Our aim was to compare new performance parameters of a modified LMS-test with those of an incremental SET, to assess the effect of training on LMS-test parameters and curve-shape, and to identify the optimal mathematical approach for LMS-curve parameters. Six untrained standardbred mares (3–4 years) performed a SET and LMS-test at the start and end of the 8-week harness training. The SET-protocol contains 5 increments (4 km/h; 3 min/step). The LMS-test started with a 3-min trot at 36–40 km/h [until blood lactate (BL) > 5 mmol/L] followed by 8 incremental steps (2 km/h; 3 min/step). The maximum lactate steady state estimation (MLSS) entailed >10 km run at the LMS and 110% LMS. The GPS, heartrate (Polar^®), and blood lactate (BL) were monitored and plotted. Curve-parameters (R core team, 3.6.0) were (SET) VLa₁._5/2/4 and (LMS-test) area under the curve (AUC_>/<LMS), LMS and Aerobic Window (AW) via angular vs. threshold method. Statistics for comparison: a paired t-test was applied, except for LMS: paired Wilcoxon test; (p < 0.05). The Pearson correlation (r > 0.80), Bland-Altman method, and ordinary least products (OLP) regression analyses were determined for test-correlation and concordance. Training induced a significant increase in VLa₁._5/2/4. The width of the AW increased significantly while the AUC_</>LMS and LMS decreased post-training (flattening U-curve). The LMS BL steady-state is reached earlier and maintained longer after training. BL_max was significantly lower for LMS vs. SET. The 40° angular method is the optimal approach. The correlation between LMS and V_MLSS was significantly better compared to the SET. The VLa₄ is unreliable for equine aerobic capacity assessment. The LMS-test allows more reliable individual performance capacity assessment at lower speed and BL compared to SETs. The LMS-test protocol can be further adapted, especially post-training; however, inducing modest hyperlactatemia prior to the incremental LMS-stages and omitting inclusion of a per-test recovery contributes to its robustness. This LMS-test is a promising tool for the development of tailored training programmes based on the AW, respecting animal welfare.

Ergogenic effects of phosphatidylserine alone and combined with branched-chain amino acids in trained rats

Acute phosphatidylserine (PS) or branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) supplements alone may have an adrenocorticotropic hormone, cortisol suppressive effect and increase the testosterone/cortisol ratio, but the associated effect of these supplements during a period of high-intensity physical stress is not yet known. The study investigated the effects of chronic PS supplementation alone and combined with BCAA during high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on training volume tolerance, anabolic-catabolic balance and stress biomarkers in rats. Thirty-three rats were separated into: placebo (PLA, n=11), PS alone (n=11) and combined with BCAA (PSBCAA, n=11). Groups performed swimming sessions of HIIT (5 series × 1 min × 1 min recovery; external load equivalent to 13% of body mass) and nine recovery sessions of moderate-intensity training (30 min at 5% of body mass) alternately. One-way ANOVA was used to compare biochemical variables and two-way ANOVA was calculated to compare training volume. Training volume performed (TVP) was higher in first, fourth, fifth, sixth, and eighth HIIT sessions in the PS group in comparison to PLA (P<0.05). TVP was higher in the fourth session in PSBCAA compared to PLA. There were no differences in TVP during the sessions between PS and BCAA groups. Creatine kinase (CK) was lower in PSBCAA in comparison to PS alone (P=0.03) and PLA (P=0.04) after the experimental period. Testosterone concentration was enhanced in PSBCAA group compared to PLA (P=0.01); testosterone/corticosterone ratio was higher in PSBCAA compared to PS (P=0.05) and PLA (P=0.004) after protocol. PS combined with BCAA increases testosterone concentration and testosterone/corticosterone ratio, demonstrating an enhancement of anabolic state in trained rats.

A portable blood lactate sensor with a non-immobilized enzyme for early sepsis diagnosis

Early determination of blood lactate levels may accelerate the detection of sepsis, one of the most time-sensitive illnesses.

Predicting the individual lactate minimum speed by T10 and T30 in swimming

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the relationship between the lactate minimum (LACmin) and the 10- (T10) and 30-min (T30) continuous tests in swimmers.

METHODS

Twelve swimmers (78.1 ± 3.1% of world record) performed the LACmin (hyperlactatemia: 2 x 50 m all-out 8-min apart, incremental part: n x 300 m 30-s apart), T30 and T10 using the front-crawl stroke. Blood samples were collected after each stage of LACmin for lactate analysis. Swimmers were oriented to swim as fast and as constant as possible in T10 and T30.

RESULTS

Speeds in T10 (1.28 ± 0.10 m/s) and T30 (1.21 ± 0.09 m/s) were different from LACmin (1.24 ± 0.09 m/s). T10 and T30 speeds presented a nearly perfect relationship with LACmin and acceptable prediction errors (T10: r = 0.938, p < 0.001, 0.033 m/s; T30: r = 0.927, p < 0.001, 0.036 m/s, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

T10 and T30 can be used as indirect tests for evaluating LACmin in swimming.

Relative aerobic and anaerobic energy contribution in race fit endurance and Thoroughbred racehorses during strenuous exercise

The objective was to compare fit Arabian endurance and Thoroughbred racehorses’ responses to a maximal intensity standardised incremental treadmill test (MaxSIT) with respect to: (1) their relative aerobic contributions during maximal exercise; and (2) selected physiological parameters related to performance. Six high-level endurance Arabians and six race-ready Thoroughbreds performed a MaxSIT starting at 8 m/s and increasing by 1 m/s increments 60 s until maximum oxygen consumption (V̇O2max) was reached. Heart rate (HR), blood lactate concentration (BLac), haematocrit (Hct), minute ventilation (V̇E) and oxygen consumption (V̇O2) were measured. V̇O2max, the speeds at which the HR were 200 and 160 bpm, respectively (V200, V160), the speed at which the BLac reached 4 mmol/l (VLa4) and lactate at HR200 (BLa200) were calculated. The relative aerobic energy input was determined using ΔBLacPeak-Resting increase as previously described. Data were expressed as median with interquartile range and analysed with a Wilcoxon rank sum test (P<0.05). Endurance horses had greater V̇O2max (202.5 ml/(kg.min) (190.3-211) vs 152.7 ml/(kg.min) (140.5-158.3); P<0.001) and had a greater aerobic energy contribution to total exercise effort (89.9% (87.0-96) vs 82.8% (81.1-84.1); P=0.009) than Thoroughbreds. Endurance horses reached HR>200 bpm on the treadmill, but had a lower HRmax (210 bpm (205-217) vs 226 bpm (219-228); P=0.008), BLa200 (3.8 mmol/l (2.7-5.5) vs 4.8 mmol/l (3.6-5.2); P<0.001) and Hctmax (56.4% (54.9-57.5) vs 61.5% (59-64); P=0.002). Endurance horses median VLa4 was 11.6 m/s (11.0-13.0); V200=11.9 m/s (10.9-12.3) and V160=8.5 m/s (7.2-8.6). Because of the HR and speed characteristics of modern endurance races, we proposed BLa200 as a new calculated parameter with which to assess endurance horses. Trained endurance horses accumulate less lactate, have a greater V̇O2max and relative aerobic contribution to their energy requirements at maximal intensity exercise despite a lower blood haematocrit.

The Lactate Minimum Test: Concept, Methodological Aspects and Insights for Future Investigations in Human and Animal Models

In 1993, Uwe Tegtbur proposed a useful physiological protocol named the lactate minimum test (LMT). This test consists of three distinct phases. Firstly, subjects must perform high intensity efforts to induce hyperlactatemia (phase 1). Subsequently, 8 min of recovery are allowed for transposition of lactate from myocytes (for instance) to the bloodstream (phase 2). Right after the recovery, subjects are submitted to an incremental test until exhaustion (phase 3). The blood lactate concentration is expected to fall during the first stages of the incremental test and as the intensity increases in subsequent stages, to rise again forming a “U” shaped blood lactate kinetic. The minimum point of this curve, named the lactate minimum intensity (LMI), provides an estimation of the intensity that represents the balance between the appearance and clearance of arterial blood lactate, known as the maximal lactate steady state intensity (iMLSS). Furthermore, in addition to the iMLSS estimation, studies have also determined anaerobic parameters (e.g., peak, mean, and minimum force/power) during phase 1 and also the maximum oxygen consumption in phase 3; therefore, the LMT is considered a robust physiological protocol. Although, encouraging reports have been published in both human and animal models, there are still some controversies regarding three main factors: (1) the influence of methodological aspects on the LMT parameters; (2) LMT effectiveness for monitoring training effects; and (3) the LMI as a valid iMLSS estimator. Therefore, the aim of this review is to provide a balanced discussion between scientific evidence of the aforementioned issues, and insights for future investigations are suggested. In summary, further analyses is necessary to determine whether these factors are worthy, since the LMT is relevant in several contexts of health sciences.

Effect of age on heart rate, blood lactate concentration, packed cell volume and hemoglobin to exercise in Jeju crossbreed horses

Background

This study aimed to analyze the on heart rate, blood lactate concentration, packed cell volume (PCV) and hemoglobin (Hb) response after conducting exercise in endurance horses.

Methods

A total of 20 healthy 3–9-years-old Jeju crossbreed mares (5.95 ± 2.24 year) of age and 312.65 ± 13.59 kg of weight) currently participating the endurance competition were used. The field tests selected for the experiment was gallop (approximately 8.3 m/s) along the selected 2.5 km course (a natural forest trail, not artificial road; a closed loop course). The horses were divided into three groups according to their age; 3–4 years of age (G1, 3.29 ± 0.49 year), 6–7 years of age (G2, 6.42 ± 0.53), and 8–9 years of age (G3, 8.50 ± 0.55). The measurements times for the heart rate, blood lactate concentration, PCV, and Hb analysis were conducted before exercise (T0), shortly after exercise (T1), 15 min after exercise (T2), and 30 min after exercise (T3), respectively. Data was analyzed using an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) for repeated measures with times and groups.

Results

The results of the comparison depending on the passage of rest time after exercise suggest that the heart rate and blood lactate concentration of three groups at T2 significantly decreased compared to T1 (p < 0.001). PCV of the G2 and G3 groups were significantly decreased at T2 compared to T1 (p < 0.01). Hb values at G2 (p < 0.01) and G3 (p < 0.001) groups were significantly decreased at T2 as compared to T1. However, heart rate, blood lactate concentration, PCV and Hb level at T1 showed no difference in the comparison of horses from different age groups with the exception of G3 group in terms of heart rate.

Conclusion

The physiologic and hematological responses of horses during recovery time after 2,500 m exercise with gallop were no significant difference among the groups. These data are useful as a response evaluation method for training of endurance horses.

Lactate minimum underestimates the maximal lactate steady-state in swimming mice

The intensity of lactate minimum (LM) has presented a good estimate of the intensity of maximal lactate steady-state (MLSS); however, this relationship has not yet been verified in the mouse model. We proposed validating the LM protocol for swimming mice by investigating the relationship among intensities of LM and MLSS as well as differences between sexes, in terms of aerobic capacity. Nineteen mice (male: 10, female: 9) were submitted to the evaluation protocols for LM and MLSS. The LM protocol consisted of hyperlactatemia induction (30 s exercise (13% body mass (bm)), 30 s resting pause and exhaustive exercise (13% bm), 9 min resting pause and incremental test). The LM underestimated MLSS (mice: 17.6%; male: 13.5%; female: 21.6%). Pearson's analysis showed a strong correlation among intensities of MLSS and LM (male (r = 0.67, p = 0.033); female (r = 0.86, p = 0.003)), but without agreement between protocols. The Bland-Altman analysis showed that bias was higher for females (1.5 (0.98) % bm; mean (MLSS and LM): 4.4%-6.4% bm) as compared with males (0.84 (1.24) % bm; mean (MLSS and LM): 4.5%-7.5% bm). The error associated with the estimated of intensity for males was lower when compared with the range of means for MLSS and LM. Therefore, the LM test could be used to determine individual aerobic intensity for males (considering the bias) but not females. Furthermore, the females supported higher intensities than the males. The differences in body mass between sexes could not explain the higher intensities supported by the females.

Blood lactate minimum of rats during swimming test using three incremental stages

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to determine the lactate minimum intensity (LMI) by swimming LACmintest using three incremental stages (LACmintest3) and to evaluate its sensitivity to changes in aerobic fitness (AF). Twenty Wistar rats performed: LACmintest3 (1): induction of hyperlactacidemia and incremental phase (4%, 5% and 6.5% of bw); Constant loads tests on (2) and above (3) the LMI. Half of the animals were subjected to training with the individual LMI and the tests were performed again. The mean exercise load in LACmintest3 was 5.04 ± 0.13% bw at 5.08 ± 0.55 mmol L-1 blood lactate minimum (BLM). There was a stabilize and disproportionate increase of blood lactate in tests 2 and 3, respectively. After the training period, the mean BLM was lower in the trained animals. The LACmintest3 seems to be a good indicator of LMI and responsive to changes in AF in rats subjected to swim training.

Responses to increasing exercise upon reaching the anaerobic threshold, and their control by the central nervous system

The anaerobic threshold (AT) has been one of the most studied of all physiological variables. Many authors have proposed the use of several markers to determine the moment at with the AT is reached. The present work discusses the physiological responses made to exercise - the measurement of which indicates the point at which the AT is reached - and how these responses might be controlled by the central nervous system. The detection of the AT having been reached is a sign for the central nervous system (CNS) to respond via an increase in efferent activity via the peripheral nervous system (PNS). An increase in CNS and PNS activities are related to changes in ventilation, cardiovascular function, and gland and muscle function. The directing action of the central command (CC) allows for the coordination of the autonomous and motor systems, suggesting that the AT can be identified in the many ways: changes in lactate, ventilation, plasma catecholamines, heart rate (HR), salivary amylase and muscular electrical activity. This change in response could be indicative that the organism would face failure if the exercise load continued to increase. To avoid this, the CC manages the efferent signals that show the organism that it is running out of homeostatic potential.

Comparison of maximal lactate steady state with V2, V4, individual anaerobic threshold and lactate minimum speed in horses

The anaerobic threshold is a physiologic event studied in various species. There are various methods for its assessment, recognized in the human and equine exercise physiology literature, several of these involving the relationship between blood lactate concentration (LAC) and exercise load, measured in a standardized exercise test. The aim of this study was to compare four of these methods: V2, V4, individual anaerobic threshold (IAT) and lactate minimum speed (LMS) with the method recognized as the gold standard for the assessment of anaerobic threshold, maximal lactate steady-state (MLSS). The five tests were carried out in thirteen trained Arabian horses, in which velocities and associated LAC could be measured. The mean velocities and the LAC associated with the anaerobic threshold for the five methods were respectively: V2 = 9.67±0.54; V4 = 10.98±0.47; V IAT = 9.81±0.72; V LMS = 7.50±0.57 and V MLSS = 6.14±0.45m.s-1 and LAC IAT = 2.17±0.93; LAC LMS = 1.17±0.62 and LAC MLSS = 0.84±0.21mmol.L-1. None of the velocities were statistically equivalent to V MLSS (P<0.05). V2, V4 and V LMS showed a good correlation with V MLSS , respectively: r = 0.74; r = 0.78 and r = 0.83, and V IAT did not significantly correlate with V MLSS. Concordance between the protocols was relatively poor, i.e., 3.28±1.00, 4.84±0.30 and 1.43±0.32m.s-1 in terms of bias and 95% agreement limits for V2, V4 and LMS methods when compared to MLSS. Only LAC LMS did not differ statistically from LAC MLSS. Various authors have reported the possibility of the assessment of anaerobic threshold using rapid protocols such as V4 and LMS for humans and horses. This study corroborates the use of these tests, but reveals that adjustments in the protocols are necessary to obtain a better concordance between the tests and the MLSS.

Reprodutibilidade do protocolo de lactato mínimo com intensidade do esforço prévio individualizado pela PSE

Introdução: O protocolo de lactato mínimo (LM) é precedido de um esforço máximo para indução a hiperlactatemia. Objetivo: Verificar a reprodutibilidade de um teste de LM com indução à hiperlactatemia realizada em teste incremental com cargas individualizadas através da percepção subjetiva de esforço (PSE). Metodologia: A amostra foi composta por 20 estudantes fisicamente ativos (25,4 ± 4,1 anos; 14,1 ± 5,0 % gordura), submetidos a dois testes de LM com metodologia idêntica. A indução a hiperlactatemia foi realizada por um teste com quatro estágios, com duração de três minutos cada e cargas individualizadas pela PSE (níveis 10, 13, 16 e o último estágio 17-20 até a exaustão voluntária). Após oito minutos de recuperação o teste progressivo começou com carga inicial de 75 W e incrementos de 25 W a cada três minutos, até a exaustão. Resultados: As intensidades de LM 1 (155,0 ± 23,8 W) e LM 2 (157,5 ± 27,0 W) não diferiram estatisticamente (p = 0,795) e de uma maneira geral apresentaram boa reprodutibilidade (CCI = 0,79) e concordância [-2,5 W de média da diferença e ± 41,8 W de abas]. Conclusão: O teste de LM, com cargas para hiperlactatemia individualizadas pela PSE, se mostrou reprodutível em indivíduos fisicamente ativos.

Aerobic fitness evaluation during walking tests identifies the maximal lactate steady state

Objective. The aim of this study was to verify the possibility of lactate minimum (LM) determination during a walking test and the validity of such LM protocol on predicting the maximal lactate steady-state (MLSS) intensity. Design. Eleven healthy subjects (24.2 ± 4.5 yr; 74.3 ± 7.7 kg; 176.9 ± 4.1 cm) performed LM tests on a treadmill, consisting of walking at 5.5 km · h⁻¹ and with 20–22% of inclination until voluntary exhaustion to induce metabolic acidosis. After 7 minutes of recovery the participants performed an incremental test starting at 7% incline with increments of 2% at each 3 minutes until exhaustion. A polynomial modeling approach (LMp) and a visual inspection (LMv) were used to identify the LM as the exercise intensity associated to the lowest [bLac] during the test. Participants also underwent to 2–4 constant intensity tests of 30 minutes to determine the MLSS intensity. Results. There were no differences among LMv (12.6 ± 1.7%), LMp (13.1 ± 1.5%), and MLSS (13.6 ± 2.1%) and the Bland and Altman plots evidenced acceptable agreement between them. Conclusion. It was possible to identify the LM during walking tests with intensity imposed by treadmill inclination, and it seemed to be valid on identifying the exercise intensity associated to the MLSS.

Physiological changes in jeju crossbred riding horses by swim training

The changes in physiologic parameters by swim exercise duration were examined in five female well-trained Jeju crossbred riding horses that had riding experience of more than three years without swim training experience. The horses were performed with swim exercise for 10 min (60.0 m/min) once a day for 14 days. Physiologic characteristics and haematic parameters were measured before swimming, immediately after swimming, and after a 10 min rest at first day (D0), 7 days (D7), and 14 days (D14) of training. After 14 days of swim training, heart rate (p<0.05), blood glucose (p<0.05), lactate concentration (p<0.001), packed cell volume (p<0.01), and hemoglobin (p<0.01) measured immediately after swim and after 10 min rest showed significant lower values than those of D0. The results illustrate the benefits of swim training for riding horses and the need for the establishment of swimming routines of appropriate duration and intensity to maximize the advantages of swim training.

Methods of exercise intensity and lactataemia determination of lactate minimum test in rats

The lactate minimum test (LMT) is a useful protocol for determining the intensity corresponding to the maximal lactate steady state. Nevertheless, different methods to determine LMT variables are found in the literature. The aim of this study was to analyse three different methods for determining the effort intensity (LMTi) and lactataemia (LMTLAC) corresponding to LMT. We subjected seventeen rats to LMT in a swimming ergometer, following three steps: (1) acidosis induction phase; (2) recovery of nine minutes; and (3) incremental swimming intensity phase. We determined the LMTi and LMTLAC using three methods: visual inspection (VI - non-mathematic), second order polynomial function (fPOLY - mathematic) and spline function (fSPL - mathematic). Results showed no significant differences between the LMTi or LMTLAC values determined using VI (5.32+0.50% bw and 5.62+0.78 mM, respectively), fPOLY (5.31+0.53% bw and 5.64+0.72 mM, respectively) and fSPL (5.32+0.54% bw and 5.59+0.76 mM, respectively). We found significant correlations between the three methods (P<0.05). We concluded that the determination of the intensity and lactataemia corresponding to LMT are not influenced by mathematic or non-mathematic methods in swimming sedentary rats.

Lactate-driven equine conditioning programmes

Equine conditioning programmes are rarely driven by science. Indeed, the scientific literature on conditioning responses often refers to conventional technique rather than physiological driving parameters. This, alongside poor classification of conditioning protocols, has reduced the possibility of comparative data analysis. Recent interest into lactate-driven conditioning programmes has driven this review which provides a summary of equine protocols used to date and their responses. Key areas identified for further standardisation and/or investigation include (1) the treadmill acclimation protocol and markers of its efficiency, (2) the design and frequency of standardised exercise tests used, and (3) the interpretation of data for the development of effective and realistic conditioning programmes.

Effects of athletic conditioning on horses with degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis: a preliminary report

Equine degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis (DSLD) is a debilitating condition that has limited response to rest and stall confinement. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that mild to moderate DSLD is not worsened by consistent exercise. Paso Fino and Peruvian Paso horses (two normal horses and four horses with DSLD) were exercised for 30 min every other day for 8 weeks and then pasture rested for 4 months. Gait analysis, radiographs, ultrasound and serum insulin and glucose concentrations were performed prior to the exercise trial and at each time point. Vertical impulse increased after 8 weeks of exercise and 4 months of pasture rest in DSLD-affected horses. Suspensory ligament fiber pattern subjectively improved with exercise in affected horses. Insulin levels significantly decreased from baseline in all horses after 4 and 8 weeks of exercise. Exercise did not seem to exacerbate and may have improved signs of DSLD in mild to moderate cases.

Maximal lactate steady state during exercise in blood of horses

The speed producing the maximal lactate steady state (maxLASS) is supposed to be the optimal speed to condition for endurance. The maxLASS was defined as the maximal speed at which the blood lactate concentration ([LA]) between the 5th and the 25th min of continuous exercise did not increase by more than 1 mmol/L. According to the aerobic-anaerobic lactate threshold concept determined in humans, maxLASS corresponds to v(4) [speed in a standardized exercise test (SET) shown to produce an [LA] of 4 mmol/L; generalized to v(i) for the speed producing an [LA] of i mmol/L]. Four Thoroughbreds were submitted to a treadmill-based SET to determine their blood lactate-running speed (BLRS) relationship and calculate the individual v(1.5), v(2), v(2.5), v(3), and v(4) values (velocities run under defined conditions inducing 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, and 4 mmol/L of blood LA). Afterward, horses ran on the treadmill for 40 min at their v(1.5), v(2), and v(2.5) every 3 d. Another 14 horses were submitted to SET in the field to determine their BLRS relationships and to calculate their v(2). The day after the SET, these horses ran once between 15 and 30 min at their v(2). In the horses that ran on the treadmill, maxLASS only occurred when running at their v(1.5). Blood [LA] did not increase by more than 1 mmol/L between the 10th min and the end of exercise for all the horses that ran in the field at their v(2.) These data indicate that maxLASS of horses is not greater than v(2) and therefore less than in running humans.

Protocols for hyperlactatemia induction in the lactate minimum test adapted to swimming rats

The lactate minimum test (LACmin) has been considered an important indicator of endurance exercise capacity and a single session protocol can predict the maximal steady state lactate (MLSS). The objective of this study was to determine the best swimming protocol to induce hyperlactatemia in order to assure the LACmin in rats (Rattus norvegicus), standardized to four different protocols (P) of lactate elevation. The protocols were P1: 6 min of intermittent jumping exercise in water (load of 50% of the body weight - bw); P2: two 13% bw load swimming bouts until exhaustion (tlim); P3: one tlim 13% bw load swimming bout; and P4: two 13% bw load swimming bouts (1st 30 s, 2nd to tlim), separated by a 30 s interval. The incremental phase of LACmin beginning with initial loads of 4% bw, increased in 0.5% at each 5 min. Peak lactate concentration was collected after 5, 7 and 9 min (mmol L(-1)) and differed among the protocols P1 (15.2+/-0.4, 14.9+/-0.7, 14.8+/-0.6) and P2 (14.0+/-0.4, 14.9+/-0.4, 15.5+/-0.5) compared to P3 (5.1+/-0.1, 5.6+/-0.3, 5.6+/-0.3) and P4 (4.7+/-0.2, 6.8+/-0.2, 7.1+/-0.2). The LACmin determination success rates were 58%, 55%, 80% and 91% in P1, P2, P3 and P4 protocols, respectively. The MLSS did not differ from LACmin in any protocol. The LACmin obtained from P4 protocol showed better assurance for the MLSS identification in most of the tested rats.

Stress biomarkers in rats submitted to swimming and treadmill running exercises

The objective of the present work was to compare stress biomarkers (serum ACTH and corticosterone hormones) during known intensity swimming and treadmill running exercises performed by rats. Adult Wistar rats (n=41) weighing 320-400 g at the beginning and 420-500 g at the end of the experiment, previously adapted to exercise and with Maximal Lactate Steady State (MLSS) already determined were used. The animals were divided into the following subgroups: (1) sacrificed shortly after session of 25 min of exercise (swimming or treadmill) at the MLSS intensity or (2) sacrificed after exhaustive exercise (swimming or treadmill) at intensity 25% higher than MLSS. For comparison, a control group C was sacrificed at rest. Two-way ANOVA was used to identify differences in the stress parameters (P<0.05). At both exercise intensities serum ACTH concentrations were significantly higher for the swimming group compared to running and control groups, while serum corticosterone concentrations in swimming and running groups were significantly higher than in the control group. The differences were more pronounced at the higher intensity (25% higher than MLSS). The swimming group showed higher concentrations for both hormones in relation to the running group. Only acute swimming exercise induced activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis responses expected to stress: elevations in the serum ACTH and corticosterone concentrations.