Int J Sports Med 2011; 32(7): 535-541
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1273754
Training & Testing

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

A ‘New’ Method to Normalise Exercise Intensity

K. E. Lansley1 , F. J. DiMenna1 , S. J. Bailey1 , A. M. Jones1
  • 1Exeter University, Sport and Health Sciences, Exeter, United Kingdom
Further Information

Publication History

accepted after revision February 13, 2011

Publication Date:
11 May 2011 (online)

Abstract

Exercise intensity has traditionally been described, prescribed and normalised as a fraction (%) of the maximal oxygen uptake (O2max). We hypothesised that the extent of inter-subject variability in the physiological responses to exercise would be greater when work rates were prescribed using % O2max as compared to % ‘delta’ (Δ), a method of normalising exercise intensity in which both the gas exchange threshold (GET) and the O2max are considered. 9 men completed a ramp incremental test on a cycle ergometer to establish the GET and O2max. Subsequently, subjects completed 6 constant-work-rate exercise bouts at intensities corresponding to: 50%, 70% and 90% O2max; and 60% GET, 40% Δ (that is, 40% of the difference between the GET and O2max) and 80% Δ. For all bouts, exercise was continued for 20 min or until task failure if this occurred sooner. When exercise was prescribed using the % Δ concept, there were significant reductions in the inter-subject variability in pulmonary gas exchange, blood lactate accumulation, heart rate, and ratings of perceived exertion (all P<0.05). In conclusion, the % Δ concept resulted in more consistent inter-subject physiological responses to constant-work-rate exercise and should be used in preference to % O2max to more effectively normalise exercise intensity.

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Correspondence

Prof. Andrew M. JonesPhD 

Exeter University

School of Sport and Health

Sciences

Richards Building

St. Luke's Campus

EX1 2LU Exeter

United Kingdom

Phone: + 44/01392/262 886

Fax: + 44/01392/264 726

Email: a.m.jones@exeter.ac.uk

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