Abstract des Autors

A reliable evaluation of the ventilatory anaerobic threshold (VAnT) is a very important tool assisting the coach in the training process, especially for endurance athletes. The V-slope (VCO2 vs. VO2) is the most commonly used non invasive method for the detection of AnTH. There are many instances, however, in which there is difficulty in visual assessment of AnTH using this method. The present study was undertaken to assess the sensitivity of the mixed expired O2 concentration (FeO2) vs. work load method (proposed method) in evaluating VAnT. Seventeen elite athletes underwent graded treadmill exercise test during which several gas exchange variables were determined. VAnT was determined graphically by 3 independent exercise physiologists using both the proposed method and the V-slope technique. Our results indicate no significant difference between the VAnT determined by the 2 methods which were highly correlated (r = 0.88). Furthermore, a larger variance was observed in the V-slope method compared with the proposed method. To improve VAnT evaluation it is suggested that both methods be used simultaneously when anaerobic threshold can not be assessed directly (i.e. using blood lactate). Verf.-Referat