Cardiorespiratory responses during exercise in competitive in-line skaters

Abstract

This study describes the cardiorespiratory responses of 12 male (age = 30 +/- 6 yr) competitive in-line skaters during peak and submaximal skating. We hypothesized that velocities of 22.5 and 27.4 km.h-1 would elicit heart rate (HR) and oxygen consumption (VO2) responses consistent with the American College of Sports Medicine's guidelines for developing cardiorespiratory fitness. Using a 644-m indoor cement course, subjects completed 10 trials comprised of various velocities, stroke frequencies, and body positions. At 22.5 km.h-1, HR and VO2 were 74 and 51% of peak, respectively. At 27.4 km.hr-1, HR and VO2 were 85 and 72% of peak, respectively. When compared to the College's guidelines, regression analysis revealed a leftward shift in the VO2-HR relationship, evidenced by a disproportionately higher HR at a VO2 approximating 60 vs 80% of peak. At 22.5 km.h-1 our skaters self-selected a stroke frequency which resulted in less of an increase in both HR and VO2, when compared to the imposed stroke frequencies of 50 min-1 and 70 min-1. Also, skating at 27.4 km.h-1 in the bent vs upright position resulted in less of an increase in HR and VO2. Competitive in-line skaters are capable of safely skating at velocities sufficient to stimulate an increase in cardiorespiratory fitness. These athletes select a stroke frequency and utilize a body position which results in favorable HR and VO2 responses.