Validity of the heart rate deflection point as a predictor of lactate threshold during running

Agreement between heart rate deflection point and maximal lactate steady state in young adults with different body masses

We examined the agreement between heart rate deflection point (HRDP) variables with maximal lactate steady state (MLSS) in a sample of young males categorized to different body mass statuses using body mass index (BMI) cut-off points. One hundred and eighteen young males (19.9 ± 4.4 years) underwent a standard running incremental protocol with individualized speed increment between 0.3 and 1.0 km/h for HRDP determination. HRDP was determined using the modified Dmax method called S.Dmax. MLSS was determined using 2-5 series of constant-speed treadmill runs. Heart rate (HR) and blood lactate concentration (La) were measured in all tests. MLSS was defined as the maximal running speed yielding a La increase of less than 1 mmol/L during the last 20 min. Good agreement was observed between HRDP and MLSS for HR for all participants (±1.96; 95% CI = -11.5 to +9.2 b/min, ICC = 0.88; P < 0.001). Good agreement was observed between HRDP and MLSS for speed for all participants (±1.96; 95% CI = -0.40 to +0.42 km/h, ICC = 0.98; P < 0.001). The same findings were observed when participants were categorized in different body mass groups. In conclusion, HRDP can be used as a simple, non-invasive and time-efficient method to objectively determine submaximal aerobic performance in nonathletic young adult men with varying body mass status, according to the chosen standards for HRDP determination.

The characterization of the transit through the anaerobic threshold based on relationships between RR and QRS cardiac intervals

This paper aims to develop a novel computational technique for the detection of the transit through the anaerobic threshold. This technique uses only cardiac intervals derived from the electrocardiogram and is based on algebraic relationships between RR and QRS intervals. Electrocardiograms are measured during the load and the recovery processes. Algebraic relationships between cardiac intervals are used not only to identify the anaerobic threshold but also to characterise individual features of the person during the transit through the threshold. The ratio between carbon dioxide and oxygen in the exhaled air is used to validate the results. The algebraic relationship between cardiac intervals serves as a stand-alone indicator for both the determination of the anaerobic threshold and the characterization of the performance of the person during the load and the recovery processes.

Classification of Intensity in Team Sport Activity

PURPOSE

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of critical metabolic power derived from variable-speed movement for classifying intensity in team sport activity.

METHODS

Elite male hockey players (n = 12) completed a series of time trials (100 yards, 400 yards, 1500 yards) and a 3-min all-out test to derive both critical speed (CS) and critical power (CP). Heart rate (HR), blood lactate, and rating of perceived exertion were measured during each protocol. Participants (n = 10) then played two competitive hockey matches. Time spent greater than 85% of maximum HR was compared with time spent above CS (from the time trials) and CP (from the 3-min test).

RESULTS

Between protocols, there was a moderate and nonsignificant association for CS (r = 0.359, P = 0.252) and a very large association for CP (r = 0.754, P = 0.005); the association was very large for peak HR (r = 0.866, P < 0.001), large for blood lactate (r = 0.506, P = 0.093), and moderate for rating of perceived exertion (rho = 0.441, P = 0.152). Time trials produced higher CS (4.3 vs 2.0 m·s, P < 0.001) and CP (18.3 vs 10.5 W·kg, P < 0.001) values than did the 3-min test. In matches, there was a very large association between time spent above 85% of maximum HR and time spent above both CS (r = 0.719, P < 0.001) and CP (r = 0.867, P < 0.001). This relationship was stronger for CP compared with CS (Z = 3.29, P = 0.0007).

CONCLUSIONS

Speed is not an appropriate parameter for the classification of team sport activity comprising continual changes in speed and direction; however, critical metabolic power derived from variable-speed activity seems useful for this purpose.

PONTOS DE TRANSIÇÃO DA FREQUÊNCIA CARDÍACA NA MARCHA ATLÉTICA

RESUMO Introdução: A frequência cardíaca fornece informações úteis para os treinamentos de marcha atlética. Objetivo: O objetivo do estudo foi analisar o comportamento da frequência cardíaca (FC) e seus pontos de inflexão (PIFC) e deflexão (PDFC) em teste progressivo de marcha atlética (TPMA) antes e depois de 20 sessões de treinamento. Métodos: Participaram 13 jovens atletas (12,46 ± 1,61 anos, 44,29 ± 10,25 kg, 157,93 ± 12,03 cm, 24,39 ± 7,60 %G). O TPMA foi realizado em uma pista oficial de atletismo, antes e depois do treinamento. Os dados de FC e carga foram plotados a cada minuto para identificação dos PIFC e PDFC. Resultados: A FC apresentou comportamento sigmoide, com identificação dos pontos de transição (PT), sendo no pré-treinamento: a) oito sujeitos PIFC (5,31 km·h-1; 125 bpm) e PDFC (7,63 km·h-1; 169 bpm); b) um sujeito somente PIFC (7,00 km·h-1; 149 bpm); c) um sujeito somente PDFC (8,00 km·h-1; 170 bpm); d) três sujeitos sem detecção de PT e no pós-treinamento: a) em 12 sujeitos PIFC (5,46 km·h-1; 125 bpm) e PDFC (7,75 km·h-1; 168 bpm); b) um sujeito somente PDFC (7,50 km·h-1; 184 bpm). O PIFC foi encontrado em carga significativamente inferior ao PDFC no pré (p < 0,001) e no pós-treinamento (p < 0,001). Quando comparamos o PIFC e o PDFC pré e pós, não encontramos diferença significativa, seja em relação à carga (p = 0,87 e p = 0,61) ou FC (p = 0,60 e p = 0,99). Conclusão: Conclui-se que a FC tem relação curvilínea com a carga, sendo possível detectar os seus pontos de transição em TPMA.

Lack of concordance amongst measurements of individual anaerobic threshold and maximal lactate steady state on a cycle ergometer

INTRODUCTION

The calculation of exertion intensity, in which a change is produced in the metabolic processes which provide the energy to maintain physical work, has been defined as the anaerobic threshold (AT). The direct calculation of maximal lactate steady state (MLSS) would require exertion intensities over a long period of time and with sufficient rest periods which would prove significantly difficult for daily practice. Many protocols have been used for the indirect calculation of MLSS.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to determine if the results of measurements with 12 different AT calculation methods and calculation software [Keul, Simon, Stegmann, Bunc, Dickhuth (TKM and WLa), Dmax, Freiburg, Geiger-Hille, Log-Log, Lactate Minimum] can be used interchangeably, including the method of the fixed threshold of Mader/OBLA's 4 mmol/l and then to compare them with the direct measurement of MLSS.

METHODS

There were two parts to this research. Phase 1: results from 162 exertion tests chosen at random from the 1560 tests. Phase 2: sixteen athletes (n = 16) carried out different tests on five consecutive days.

RESULTS

There was very high concordance among all the methods [intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) > 0.90], except Log-Log in relation to the Stegamnn, Dmax, Dickhuth-WLa and Geiger-Hille. The Dickhuth-TKM showed a high tendency towards concordance, with Dmax (2.2 W) and Dickhuth-WLa (0.1 W). The Dickhuth-TKM method presented a high tendency to concordance with Dickhuth-WLa (0.5 W), Freiburg (7.4 W), MLSS (2.0 W), Bunc (8.9 W), Dmax (0.1 W). The calculation of MLSS power showed a high tendency to concordance, with Dickhuth-TKM (2 W), Dmax (2.1 W), Dickhuth-WLa (1.5 W).

CONCLUSION

The fixed threshold of 4 mmol/l or OBLA produces slightly different and higher results than those obtained with all the methods analyzed, including MLSS, meaning an overestimation of power in the individual anaerobic threshold. The Dickhuth-TKM, Dmax and Dickhuth-WLa methods defined a high concordance on a cycle ergometer. Dickhuth-TKM, Dmax, Dickhuth-WLa described a high concordance with the power calculated to know the MLSS.

Heart Rate-Based Prediction of Fixed Blood Lactate Thresholds in Professional Team-Sport Players

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the speed associated with 90% of maximal heart rate (S90%HRmax) could predict speeds at fixed blood lactate concentrations of 3 mmol·L(-1) (S3mM) and 4 mmol·L(-1) (S4mM). Professional team-sport players of futsal (n = 10), handball (n = 16), and basketball (n = 10) performed a 4-stage discontinuous progressive running test followed, if exhaustion was not previously achieved, by an additional maximal continuous incremental running test to attain maximal heart rate (HRmax). The individual S3mM, S4mM, and S90%HRmax were determined by linear interpolation. S3mM (11.6 ± 1.5 km·h(-1)) and S4mM (12.5 ± 1.4 km·h(-1)) did not differ (p > 0.05) from S90%HRmax (12.0 ± 1.2 km·h(-1)). Very large significant (p < 0.001) relationships were found between S90%HRmax and S3mM (r = 0.82; standard error of the estimates [SEE] = 0.87 km·h(-1)), as well as between S90%HRmax and S4mM (r = 0.82; SEE = 0.87 km·h(-1)). S3mM and S4mM inversely correlated with %HRmax associated with running speeds of 10 and 12 km·h(-1) (r = 0.78-0.81; p < 0.001; SEE = 0.94-0.87 km·h(-1)). In conclusion, S3mM and S4mM can be accurately predicted by S90%HRmax in professional team-sport players.

Heart rate deflection point relates to second ventilatory threshold in a tennis test

The relationship between heart rate deflection point (HRDP) and the second ventilatory threshold (VT2) has been studied in continuous sports, but never in a tennis-specific test. The aim of the study was to assess the relationships between HRDP and the VT2, and between the maximal test performance and the maximal oxygen uptake ((Equation is included in full-text article.)) in an on-court specific endurance tennis test. Thirty-five high-level tennis players performed a progressive tennis-specific field test to exhaustion to determine HRDP, VT2, and (Equation is included in full-text article.). Ventilatory gas exchange parameters were continuously recorded by a portable telemetric breath-by-breath gas exchange measurement system. Heart rate deflection point was identified at the point at which the slope values of the linear portion of the time/heart rate (HR) relationship began to decline and was successfully determined in 91.4% of the players. High correlations (r = 0.79-0.96; p < 0.001) between physiological (HR and oxygen uptake [(Equation is included in full-text article.)]) and performance (Time, Stage, and Frequency of balls [Ballf]) variables corresponding to HRDP and VT2 were observed. Frequency of balls at the HRDP (BallfHRDP) was detected at 19.8 ± 1.7 shots per minute. Paired t-test showed no significant differences in HR (178.9 ± 8.5 vs. 177.9 ± 8.7 b·min for HRDP vs. HRVT2, respectively) at intensities corresponding to HRDP and VT2. Maximal test performance and (Equation is included in full-text article.)were moderately correlated (r = 0.56; p < 0.001). Heart rate deflection point obtained from this specific tennis test can be used to determine the VT2, and the BallfHRDP can be used as a practical performance variable to prescribe on-court specific aerobic training at or near VT2.

Analysis of heart rate deflection points to predict the anaerobic threshold by a computerized method

Many studies have used the heart rate deflection points (HRDPs) during incremental exercise tests, because of their strong correlation with the anaerobic threshold. The aim of this study was to evaluate the profile of the HRDPs identified by a computerized method and compare them with ventilatory and lactate thresholds. Twenty-four professional soccer players (age, 22 ± 5 years; body mass, 74 ± 7 kg; height 177 ± 7 cm) volunteered for the study. The subjects completed a Bruce-protocol incremental treadmill exercise test to volitional fatigue. Heart rate (HR) and alveolar gas exchange were recorded continuously at ≥1 Hz during exercise testing. Subsequently, the time course of the HR was fit by a computer algorithm, and a set of lines yielding the lowest pooled residual sum of squares was chosen as the best fit. This procedure defined 2 HRDPs (HRDP1 and HRDP2). The HR break points averaged 43.9 ± 5.9 and 89.7 ± 7.5% of the VO2peak. The HRDP1 showed a poor correlation with ventilatory threshold (VT; r = 0.50), but HRDP2 was highly correlated to the respiratory compensation (RC) point (r = 0.98). Neither HRDP1 nor HRDP2 was correlated with LT1 (at VO2 = 2.26 ± 0.72 L·min(-1); r = 0.26) or LT2 (2.79 ± 0.59 L·min(-1); r = 0.49), respectively. LT1 and LT2 also were not well correlated with VT (2.93 ± 0.68 L·min(-1); r = 0.20) or RC (3.82 ± 0.60 L·min(-1); r = 0.58), respectively. Although the HR deflection points were not correlated to LT, HRDP2 could be identified in all the subjects and was strongly correlated with RC, consistent with a relationship to cardiorespiratory fatigue and endurance performance.

Comparação do ponto de deflexão da frequência cardíaca com a máxima fase estável de lactato em corredores de fundo

O objetivo do estudo foi comparar o ponto de deflexão da freqüência cardíaca (PDFC) visual e método DMAX com a máxima fase estável de lactato (MFEL). Treze corredores executaram teste incremental Vameval e testes de cargas retangulares (TCR). A velocidade do PDFC visual (14,3 ± 1,13km.h-1) foi significantemente maior que o DMAX (13,2 ± 1,35km.h-1) além de apresentarem correlação não significante. Entretanto, nenhuma dessas velocidades foram diferentes da MFEL (13,8 ± 0,90km.h-1) embora somente o PDFC visual tenha apresentado correlação significante com a MFEL (r = 0,75). A concentração de lactato sanguíneo não apresentou estabilidade em oito sujeitos no TCR na intensidade do PDFC visual o qual nos leva a concluir que este não é um índice confiável para estimativa da MFEL. No entanto, este índice pode ser usado como um indicador de capacidade aeróbia.

Strong relationship between heart rate deflection point and ventilatory threshold in trained rowers

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between heart rate deflection point (HRDP) and ventilatory threshold (VT) to the physiological and performance variables in a relatively large group of trained men rowers. We proposed the hypothesis that physiological and performance variables corresponding to HRDP are not significantly different from corresponding variables at VT, which would justify the use of HRDP as a simple, affordable, and noninvasive method of anaerobic threshold assessment in trained rowers. Eighty-nine trained men rowers (mean ± SD: age 21.2 ± 4.1 years; stature 1.89 ± 0.06 m; body mass 89.2 ± 8.4 kg; VO₂max [maximum oxygen uptake] 5.39 ± 0.62 L/min⁻¹) completed an incremental rowing ergometer exercise test to exhaustion. Three independent, experienced observers determined both HRDP and VT. HRDP was determined by visual and computer-aided regression analyses and was evident in all rowers. The main findings include (a) there is a strong relationship among all observed physiological and performance variables corresponding to HR(HRDP) and HR(VT) (r = 0.79-0.96; p < 0.001) and (b) power output, oxygen uptake, ventilation, tidal volume and breathing rate corresponding to HR(HRDP) and HR(VT) were not significantly different (p ≥ 0.011), whereas HR(HRDP) was slightly but significantly higher than HR(VT) (174.5 vs. 172.8 beats·min⁻¹; p = 0.003). The standard error of the estimate in predicting the HR(VT) based on HR(HRDP) was 5.1 beats·min⁻¹. The subsequent data suggest that, in general, trained rowers may be able to periodically assess their aerobic endurance and evaluate the effects of training programs using the HRDP method.

Value of the Application of the Heart Rate Performance Curve in Sports

The heart rate performance curve (HRPC) has been shown to be nonlinearly related to work load. This phenomenon has been used to determine a defection point and to be related to the lactate anaerobic threshold. The original method was heavily criticized, and the method was challenged by several authors. However, some authors also demonstrated a high value for this method’s application in various sports conditions. Unfortunately, the HRPC was shown to be not uniform and three different patterns were found. Basic investigations have shown a dependence of the HR-defection on beta1-receptor sensitivity, which gave a plausible explanation of the phenomenon. Important details regarding the testing protocol and the method of turn point determination are given in this review. As a conclusion, we may state that based on numerous studies the method is plausible and valid to determine aerobic exercise performance in various laboratory ergometer and specific sports-related field conditions. Standard protocol conditions adjusted to the exercise performance level of subjects and a computer-supported determination of turn points are necessary to obtain reliable results. Large-scale investigations to validate the heart rate turn point with maximal lactate steady state are still needed. However, from the available literature, the application of this noninvasive method can be recommended to determine aerobic exercise performance in various sports. This noninvasive test is easy to perform repeatedly, which gives interesting possibilities for the monitoring of training adaptation in the short term, such as altitude training or specifc taper forms.

Non-invasive Indices for the Estimation of the Anaerobic Threshold of Oarsmen

This study compared four common non-invasive indices with an invasive index for determining the anaerobic threshold (AT) in 22 adult male rowers using a Concept2 rowing ergometer. A criterion-standard progressive incremental test (invasive method) measured blood lactate concentrations to determine the 4 mmol/l threshold (La4-AT) and Dmax AT (Dm-AT). This was compared with three indices obtained by analysis of respiratory gases and one that was based on the heart rate (HR) deflection point (HRDP) all of which used the Conconi test (non-invasive methods). In the Conconi test, the HRDP was determined whilst continuously increasing the power output (PO) by 25 W/min and measuring respiratory gases and HR. The La4-AT and Dm-AT values differed slightly with respect to oxygen uptake, PO and HR however, AT values significantly correlated with each other and with the four non-invasive methods. In conclusion, the non-invasive indices were comparable with the invasive index and could, therefore, be used in the assessment of AT during rowing ergometer use. In this population of elite rowers, Conconi threshold (Con-AT), based on the measurement of HRDP tended to be the most adequate way of estimating AT for training regulation purposes.

Noninvasive determination of anaerobic threshold by monitoring the %SpO2 changes and respiratory gas exchange

The purpose of this study was to determine the validity of noninvasive anaerobic threshold (AT) estimation using %SpO2 (arterial oxyhemoglobin saturation) changes and respiratory gas exchanges. Fifteen active, healthy males performed 2 graded exercise tests on a motor-driven treadmill in 2 separated sessions. Respiratory gas exchanges and heart rate (HR), lactate concentration, and %SpO2 were measured continuously throughout the test. Anaerobic threshold was determined based on blood lactate concentration (lactate-AT), %SpO2 changes (%SpO2-AT), respiratory exchange ratio (RER-AT), V-slope method (V-slope-AT), and ventilatory equivalent for O2 (EqO2-AT). Blood lactate measuring was considered as gold standard assessment of AT and was applied to confirm the validity of other noninvasive methods. The mean O2 corresponding to lactate-AT, %SpO2-AT, RER-AT, V-slope -AT, and EqO2-AT were 2176.6 +/- 206.4, 1909.5 +/- 221.4, 2141.2 +/- 245.6, 1933.7 +/- 216.4, and 1975 +/- 232.4, respectively. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis indicates a significant correlation between 4 noninvasive methods and the criterion method. Blond-Altman plots showed the good agreement between O2 corresponding to AT in each method and lactate-AT (95% confidence interval (CI). Our results indicate that a noninvasive and easy procedure of monitoring the %SpO2 is a valid method for estimation of AT. Also, in the present study, the respiratory exchange ratio (RER) method seemed to be the best respiratory index for noninvasive estimation of anaerobic threshold, and the heart rate corresponding to AT predicted by this method can be used by coaches and athletes to define training zones.

Sustained, prolonged exercise at stable heart rate defined by the deflection point identification method

Gripp,The objectives of this study were to identify the heart rate deflection point (HRDP) assessed according to the Conconi test method, to evaluate the ability of trained cyclists to pedal for 90 minutes while remaining within a stable heart rate (HR) range determined by identifying the HRDP, and to discuss the motor and physiological parameters recorded during this long-duration exercise. Ten trained men cyclists (VO2max: 64.1 +/- 8.86 mlxkgxmin) had their HRDPs determined. One week later, they performed continuous exercise for 90 minutes on a cycle ergometer at a stable HR sustained within a range comprising the HRDP +/- 5 bpm. Subjects' HR and power output values were registered at each minute. Blood lactate, blood glucose, and body temperature were measured at rest and during exercise. All exercise was performed inside an environmental chamber (temperature of 22 degrees C, relative humidity of 60%). In the first 5 minutes, the participants increased power output to reach the HRDP, and adjustments were required in their physiological parameters to meet this exercise demand. Between the 5th and the 30th minutes, HRDP had already been reached by all participants; nevertheless, all the other physiological and motor parameters were adjusting to this exercise demand. After 30 minutes of exercise, the physiological and motor variables had already adjusted to the new demand and remained stable until the end of exercise (blood lactate was not significantly different from 4 mmolxL). These results suggest the efficacy of the HRDP as an auxiliary method for prescribing and controlling sport training: after the defined HRDP has been reached, the technique confirms maintenance of power output, as well as the other physiological parameters, at threshold levels until the end of exercise.

Physical fitness indices and anthropometrics profiles in schoolchildren with sickle cell trait/disease

The current studies aimed at determining physical fitness indices and anthropometrics profiles of school children with sickle cell trait (SCT) and sickle cell disease (SCD). Male school children (150) comprising 3 Groups participated in the studies. Group 1 has 50 normal healthy controls, while Groups 2 and 3 each has 50 children who were suffering from SCT and SCD, respectively. Anthropometrics measurement and parameters of physical fitness were assessed in all subjects. All children were also subjected to a 5-min running exercise test on a flat motorized treadmill at speed corresponding to 5 km/hr. Throughout the test, heart rate was monitored and recorded during exercise and for 10-min during recovery. Blood lactate was measured before and 5 min following the completion of test. The mean values of lean body mass and height were lower in the SCD children (P < 0.05) compared with the healthy subjects and SCT individuals. Children with SCD exhibited a higher mean value (P < 0.05) for percent body fat and fat mass than the normal healthy subjects and SCT individuals. Although all groups tolerated well the treadmill exercise protocol, the SCD group exhibited higher (P < 0.05) mean values of heart rate during exercise than those observed in the SCT and normal control children. In addition, SCD children showed higher serum lactate values before and after treadmill exercise compared to the other groups. Children with SCD exhibit high level of adiposity; low level of fitness and their exercise performance appears to be physiologically more stressful as indicated by heart rate and blood lactate concentration responses.

Relationship between laboratory-measured variables and heart rate during an ultra-endurance triathlon

The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between the performance heart rate during an ultra-endurance triathlon and the heart rate corresponding to several demarcation points measured during laboratory-based progressive cycle ergometry and treadmill running. Less than one month before an ultra-endurance triathlon, 21 well-trained ultra-endurance triathletes (mean +/- s: age 35 +/- 6 years, height 1.77 +/- 0.05 m, mass 74.0 +/- 6.9 kg, = 4.75 +/- 0.42 l x min(-1)) performed progressive exercise tests of cycle ergometry and treadmill running for the determination of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), heart rate corresponding to the first and second ventilatory thresholds, as well as the heart rate deflection point. Portable telemetry units recorded heart rate at 60 s increments throughout the ultra-endurance triathlon. Heart rate during the cycle and run phases of the ultra-endurance triathlon (148 +/- 9 and 143 +/- 13 beats x min(-1) respectively) were significantly (P < 0.05) less than the second ventilatory thresholds (160 +/- 13 and 165 +/- 14 beats x min(-1) respectively) and heart rate deflection points (170 +/- 13 and 179 +/- 9 beats x min(-1) respectively). However, mean heart rate during the cycle and run phases of the ultra-endurance triathlon were significantly related to (r = 0.76 and 0.66; P < 0.01), and not significantly different from, the first ventilatory thresholds (146 +/- 12 and 148 +/- 15 beats x min(-1) respectively). Furthermore, the difference between heart rate during the cycle phase of the ultra-endurance triathlon and heart rate at the first ventilatory threshold was related to marathon run time (r = 0.61; P < 0.01) and overall ultra-endurance triathlon time (r = 0.45; P < 0.05). The results suggest that triathletes perform the cycle and run phases of the ultra-endurance triathlon at an exercise intensity near their first ventilatory threshold.

Limiar ventilatório e variabilidade da freqüência cardíaca em adolescentes

As análises da concentração sanguínea de lactato e das trocas gasosas respiratórias são métodos tradicionalmente empregados para identificar a transição de produção de energia pelo metabolismo muscular. No entanto, mais recentemente, vem sendo sugerido método alternativo mediante análise da variabilidade da freqüência cardíaca. Pretendeu-se, com o presente estudo, estabelecer comparações entre o limiar de variabilidade da freqüência cardíaca (LiVFC) e o primeiro limiar ventilatório (LV1), em uma amostra de adolescentes. Para tanto, foram submetidos a teste de esforço físico de carga máxima em esteira ergométrica 41 sujeitos (22 rapazes e 19 moças) com idades entre 15 e 18 anos. O LV1 foi identificado mediante o equivalente ventilatório de oxigênio envolvendo recursos de ergoespirometria. A variabilidade da freqüência cardíaca foi analisada por intermédio dos intervalos R-R, através da plotagem de Poincaré, que oferece informações quanto ao desvio-padrão da variabilidade instantânea batimento-a-batimento (SD1), ao desvio-padrão a longo prazo de intervalos R-R contínuos (SD2) e à razão SD1/SD2. O LiVFC foi identificado pelo SD1 de acordo com três critérios: (1) diferenças entre o SD1 de dois estágios consecutivos menor que 1ms; (2) SD1 menor que 3ms; e (3) ocorrência de ambos os critérios em conjunto. Mediante análise dos resultados verificou-se que os intervalos R-R e SD2 diminuíram progressivamente a cada intervalo de 10% do VO2pico até o final do teste de esforço físico (0,05 < p < 0,01). O SD1 diminuiu significativamente desde 20% até 50% do VO2pico. A partir de 60% até o VO2pico o SD1 não apresentou diferenças significativas. A razão SD1/SD2 aumentou a partir de 60%. O LV1 ocorreu a 54,4 ± 8,8% do VO2pico enquanto o LiVFC, a 52,4 ± 12,5%, 57,0 ± 14,1% e 57,8 ± 13,8% do VO2 pico, para os critérios 1, 2 e 3, respectivamente. Não foram observadas diferenças estatísticas entre o LV1 e os três critérios utilizados para identificação do LiVFC. Observaram-se coeficientes de correlação momento-produto significativos entre o LiVFC identificado mediante os três critérios considerados e o LV1, quando foram utilizados os valores absolutos de VO2. Porém, não foram encontradas correlações estatísticas significativas entre o LiVFC e a identificação do LV1 expresso em proporção do VO2pico. Em assim sendo, concluiu-se que parece ser precipitado tentar empregar o LiVFC como método alternativo na identificação do LV1 de adolescentes.

Heart rate deflection point as a strategy to defend stroke volume during incremental exercise

The purpose of this study was to examine whether the heart rate (HR) deflection point (HRDP) in the HR-power relationship is concomitant with the maximal stroke volume (SV(max)) value achievement in endurance-trained subjects. Twenty-two international male cyclists (30.3 +/- 7.3 yr, 179.7 +/- 7.2 cm, 71.3 +/- 5.5 kg) undertook a graded cycling exercise (50 W every 3 min) in the upright position. Thoracic impedance was used to measure continuously the HR and stroke volume (SV) values. The HRDP was estimated by the third-order curvilinear regression method. As a result, 72.7% of the subjects (HRDP group, n = 16) presented a break point in their HR-work rate curve at 89.9 +/- 2.8% of their maximal HR value. The SV value increased until 78.0 +/- 9.3% of the power associated with maximal O(2) uptake (Vo(2 max)) in the HRDP group, whereas it increased until 94.4 +/- 8.6% of the power associated with Vo(2 max) in six other subjects (no-HRDP group, P = 0.004). Neither SV(max) (ml/beat or ml.beat(-1).m(-2)) nor Vo(2 max) (ml/min or ml.kg(-1).min(-1)) were different between both groups. However, SV significantly decreased before exhaustion in the HRDP group (153 +/- 44 vs. 144 +/- 40 ml/beat, P = 0.005). In the HRDP group, 62% of the variance in the power associated with the SV(max) could also be predicted by the power output at which HRDP appeared. In conclusion, in well-trained subjects, the power associated with the SV(max)-HRDP relationship supposed that the HR deflection coincided with the optimal cardiac work for which SV(max) was attained.

Practical markers of the transition from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism during exercise: rationale and a case for affect-based exercise prescription

BACKGROUND

The high rates of dropout from exercise programs may be attributed in part to the poor ability of most individuals to accurately self-monitor and self-regulate their exercise intensity. The point of transition from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism may be an appropriate level of exercise training intensity as it appears to be effective and safe for a variety of populations. Possible practical markers of this event were compared.

METHODS

Two samples of 30 young and healthy volunteers each participated in incremental treadmill tests until volitional exhaustion. The ventilatory threshold, a noninvasive estimate of the aerobic-anaerobic transition, was identified from gas exchange data. Heart rate, self-ratings of affective valence (pleasure-displeasure), perceived activation, and perceived exertion were recorded every minute.

RESULTS

In both samples, heart rate, perceived activation, and perceived exertion rose continuously, whereas the ratings of affective valence showed a pattern of quadratic decline, initiated once the ventilatory threshold was exceeded.

CONCLUSIONS

Exercise intensity that exceeds the point of transition from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism is accompanied by a quadratic decline in affective valence. This marker may be useful in aiding exercisers to recognize the transition to anaerobic metabolism and, thus, more effectively self-monitor and self-regulate the intensity of their efforts.

Heart rate monitoring: applications and limitations

Over the last 20 years, heart rate monitors (HRMs) have become a widely used training aid for a variety of sports. The development of new HRMs has also evolved rapidly during the last two decades. In addition to heart rate (HR) responses to exercise, research has recently focused more on heart rate variability (HRV). Increased HRV has been associated with lower mortality rate and is affected by both age and sex. During graded exercise, the majority of studies show that HRV decreases progressively up to moderate intensities, after which it stabilises. There is abundant evidence from cross-sectional studies that trained individuals have higher HRV than untrained individuals. The results from longitudinal studies are equivocal, with some showing increased HRV after training but an equal number of studies showing no differences. The duration of the training programmes might be one of the factors responsible for the versatility of the results.HRMs are mainly used to determine the exercise intensity of a training session or race. Compared with other indications of exercise intensity, HR is easy to monitor, is relatively cheap and can be used in most situations. In addition, HR and HRV could potentially play a role in the prevention and detection of overtraining. The effects of overreaching on submaximal HR are controversial, with some studies showing decreased rates and others no difference. Maximal HR appears to be decreased in almost all 'overreaching' studies. So far, only few studies have investigated HRV changes after a period of intensified training and no firm conclusions can be drawn from these results. The relationship between HR and oxygen uptake (VO(2)) has been used to predict maximal oxygen uptake (VO(2max)). This method relies upon several assumptions and it has been shown that the results can deviate up to 20% from the true value. The HR-VO(2) relationship is also used to estimate energy expenditure during field conditions. There appears to be general consensus that this method provides a satisfactory estimate of energy expenditure on a group level, but is not very accurate for individual estimations. The relationship between HR and other parameters used to predict and monitor an individual's training status can be influenced by numerous factors. There appears to be a small day-to-day variability in HR and a steady increase during exercise has been observed in most studies. Furthermore, factors such as dehydration and ambient temperature can have a profound effect on the HR-VO(2) relationship.

Methods to determine aerobic endurance

Physiological testing of elite athletes requires the correct identification and assessment of sports-specific underlying factors. It is now recognised that performance in long-distance events is determined by maximal oxygen uptake (V(2 max)), energy cost of exercise and the maximal fractional utilisation of V(2 max) in any realised performance or as a corollary a set percentage of V(2 max) that could be endured as long as possible. This later ability is defined as endurance, and more precisely aerobic endurance, since V(2 max) sets the upper limit of aerobic pathway. It should be distinguished from endurance ability or endurance performance, which are synonymous with performance in long-distance events. The present review examines methods available in the literature to assess aerobic endurance. They are numerous and can be classified into two categories, namely direct and indirect methods. Direct methods bring together all indices that allow either a complete or a partial representation of the power-duration relationship, while indirect methods revolve around the determination of the so-called anaerobic threshold (AT). With regard to direct methods, performance in a series of tests provides a more complete and presumably more valid description of the power-duration relationship than performance in a single test, even if both approaches are well correlated with each other. However, the question remains open to determine which systems model should be employed among the several available in the literature, and how to use them in the prescription of training intensities. As for indirect methods, there is quantitative accumulation of data supporting the utilisation of the AT to assess aerobic endurance and to prescribe training intensities. However, it appears that: there is no unique intensity corresponding to the AT, since criteria available in the literature provide inconsistent results; and the non-invasive determination of the AT using ventilatory and heart rate data instead of blood lactate concentration ([La(-)](b)) is not valid. Added to the fact that the AT may not represent the optimal training intensity for elite athletes, it raises doubt on the usefulness of this theory without questioning, however, the usefulness of the whole [La(-)](b)-power curve to assess aerobic endurance and predict performance in long-distance events.

A review of the concept of the heart rate deflection point

The heart rate deflection point (HRDP) is a downward or upward change from the linear HR-work relationship evinced during progressive incremental exercise testing. The HRDP is reported to be coincident with the anaerobic threshold. In 1982, Conconi and colleagues suggested that this phenomenon could be used as a noninvasive method to assess the anaerobic threshold. These researchers developed a field test to assess the HRDP, which has become popularised as the 'Conconi test'. Concepts used to define and assess the anaerobic threshold as well as methodological procedures used to determine the HRDP are diverse in the literature and have contributed to controversy surrounding the HRDP concept. Although the HRDP may be assessed in either field or laboratory settings, the degree of HR deflection is highly dependent upon the type of protocol used. The validity of HRDP to assess the anaerobic threshold is uncertain, although a high degree of relationship exists between HRDP and the second lactate turnpoint. The HRDP appears to be reliable when a positive identification is made; however, not all studies report 100% reproducibility. Although the physiological mechanisms explaining the HRDP are unresolved, a relationship exists between the degree and direction of HRDP and left ventricular function. The HRDP has potential to be used for training regulation purposes. Clinically, it may be incorporated to set exercise intensity parameters for cardiac rehabilitation.