The maximal aerobic power (VO2max) and maximal anaerobic capacity (AODmax) of 16 female rowers were compared to their peak aerobic power (VO2peak) and peak anaerobic capacity (AODpeak, respectively) during a simulated 2-km race on a rowing ergometer. Each subject completed three tests, which included a 2-min maximal effort bout to determine the AODmax, a series of four, 4-min submaximal stages with subsequent progression to VO2max and a simulated 2-km race. Aerobic power was determined using an open-circuit system, and the accumulated oxygen deficit method was used to calculate anaerobic capacities from recorded mechanical power on a rowing ergometer. The average VO2peak (3.58 l min(-1)), which usually occurred during the last minute of the race simulation, was not significantly different (P > 0.05) from the VO2max (3.55 l min(-1)). In addition, the rowers' AODmax (3.40 l) was not significantly different (P > 0.05) from their AODpeak (3.50 1). The average time taken for the rowers to complete the 2-km race simulation was 7.5 min, and the anaerobic system (AODpeak) accounted for 12% of the rowers' total energy production during the race.

Speed skaters have previously relied on cycle ergometry for physiological testing. Current evidence suggests skate-specific testing might be more appropriate. Unlike cycling, skating and off-ice low walk training involves a 'crouched' posture, placing the quadriceps in static contraction. This may compromise blood flow to working muscles and influence VO2. We compared physiological variables between skate-specific treadmill low walking (LW) and cycle ergometry (BK). Skaters (N = 8) performed LW and BK to fatigue in randomized order. No difference existed for peak HR. Peak VO2 was lower for LW (4.13 +/- 0.34 vs 4.43 +/- 0.35, p < 0.05). Peak VE was lower during LW (146 +/- 13 vs 180 +/- 31, p < 0.05). R was significantly lower for LW, although no difference in peak lactate (LA) was evident. At submaximal heart rates, VO2 was lower during LW (p < 0.05), and submaximal LA was higher when expressed as percent peak VO2 (p < 0.05). These results are consistent with the hypothesis that skating posture limits O2 delivery to the lower extremities, and thus accounts for a greater dependence upon anaerobic energy production.

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