Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of increasing specific (rowing ergometer) and non-specific (cycle ergometer) workloads on parameters relating to the ventilatory threshold (Tvent) and work efficiency. When highly trained male rowers were tested using non-specific workloads, their VO2max values at Tvent were close to those characteristic of untrained subjects (74.6+/-6.2 VO2max). However, when we tested the same subjects using specific workloads, we recorded values typical of highly trained athletes (85.0+/-4.4 VO2max). For the non-specific exercise on the cycle ergometer, we recorded work efficiency values close to those of untrained subjects (22.8+/-2.1); however, for the specific exercise on the rowing ergometer, we recorded much lower values (16.4+/-3.1). Because of the results of the non-specific submaximal exercise tests, we suggest caution in the interpretation of physiological variables that may be sensitive to training status. The evaluation of Tvent and work efficiency as supplementary parameters during laboratory studies will anable researchers to ascertain the effectiveness of the training process used, as well as indicating the specific of the loading apparaturs. Verf.-Referat