Recovery metabolism following exercise above and below the anaerobic threshold

Abstract

This study determined the effects of exercising above (LATabove) and below(LATbelow) the lactate threshold, upon excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) magnitude and duration among average fit females. Thirteen females underwent testing over a nine-day period (5 visits). Resting metabolic rate (RMR) was assessed over two days. A ramp cycle test determined peak V02 and LAT. Blood samples, ventilatory, and heart rate measurements were recorded during rest, exercise, and recovery. On separatedays, volunteers exercised 10% LATabove and LATbelow expending 300 kcals. Afterwards,heart rate, RER, and V02 were measured until within ± 5% of the baseline RMR. EPOC duration was significantly greater for LATabove (61.49 + 8.73 min) than LATbelow (30.72 + 4.81 min). EPOC magnitude was also significantly greater LATabove (24.29 + 3.67 kcals) than LATbelow (13.28 ± 2.10 kcals). This study demonstrated exercising at LATabove adds an additional energy cost component to the recovery dynamics.