Aerobic Endurance Testing
Blood lactate profiling and VO2max assessment
Price: €120 - Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
Aerobic endurance is measured by analysing expired air collected via a face mask and sample line during exercise on a treadmill, cycle or other ergometer. We can work out exactly how much oxygen is being used at sub-maximal and maximal efforts to tell us the movement economy (e.g., running or cycling economy) and maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max). We also take small blood samples at different intensities to measure blood lactate concentration as it builds up during the exercise bout. We can then visually determine your lactate threshold (steady pace) and lactate turnpoint (race pace) occurrences and their corresponding intensities and heart rates. This is important to know to define the different training zones (e.g., steady, heavy, etc.) and better structure your training plan. So, we perform two tests, firstly to show the level at which you can maintain exercise for long periods (lactate profiling), and secondly to measure your maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max, a good indicator of your fitness level). Heart rate is continuously measured during both tests. All participants receive a written explanation of test results, which includes VO2max value and its associated speed or power output, lactate threshold and turnpoint values and their corresponding intensities and heart rates, individualised training zones and training advice. This test also includes measurements of haemoglobin and haematocrit levels at rest.
VO2max assessment
Price: €85 - Duration: 1 hour
A similar VO2max exercise test is performed as described above. However, the blood lactate threshold determination is replaced with a simpler estimation of gas exchange threshold using expired gases only. All participants receive a written explanation of test results, which include individualised training zones. This test also includes measurements of haemoglobin and haematocrit levels at rest.
Follow-up test
Accurate follow-up tests are essential to determine the effectiveness of training regimes and monitor improvements over a year or season. They also allow progress to be monitored when recovering from illness or injury and are central to maintaining motivation in such situations. Follow-up visits are scheduled appropriately and, where necessary, may include all of the tests conducted during the initial consultation. Results are updated and training programmes are fine-tuned after each visit.
