Abstract

The purpose of this study was to find out the cause of fatigue during paddling on kayak ergometer in a simulated 1000 m race. The study was carried out on 11 male kayakers. A kayak ergometer was used for the exercises. Four exercise tests lasting 1, 2, 3, or 4 min were performed on seperate days. No one was informed about the order of the experiment. Measurements were taken of oxygen uptake, oxygen debt, blood lactic acid and ammonia concentration. The total work done and the mean power output were calculated. Oxygen uptake was measured during the exercise and 10 min recovery with the use of the MMC Beckman System. Blood lactic acid concentration was measured using Boehringer test after exercise at 1, 4, 8, 15 and 30, in recovery. Blood ammonia was estimated at rest and 4 min after exercise using a Boehringer-Manhain Kit. It was found that a decrease of power output was accompanied by an increase of oxygen uptake, blood lactate, and ammonia concentration. High LA and ammonia concentration in blood can be considered as the factors limiting biological processes connected with transmission of chemical energy to mechanical work and affecting the fatigue. Verf.-Referat