Estimation of the Contribution of the Various Energy Systems During Maximal Work of Short Duration

Abstract

The aim of this experiment was to estimate the relative contribution of the various energy delivery systems during maximal exercise tests of short duration. Twenty-five males were submitted to a VO2max test and 10-, 30-, and 90-s maximal ergocycle tests. Expiratory gases were collected with a Douglas bag during the entire 30-s test and continuously monitored with an open-circuit system during the 90-s test. Estimates of the phosphagenic component represented approximately 55%-60% of the energy expenditure during the 10-s work performance. Results of the 30-s test indicated that the relative contributions of the energy systems were 23%, 49%, and 28% for the phosphagenic, glycolytic, and oxidative pathways, respectively. For the 90-s test, these estimates were 12%, 42%, and 46% for the three metabolic systems. The highest contribution of each system during the 90-s was obtained from 5 to 15 s for the phosphagenic component, from 16 to 30 s for the glycolytic, and from 61 to 75 s for the aerobic energy systems. During the 90-s test, VO2max was reached after approximately 60 s. It is concluded that the 30 and 90 s are not strictly anaerobic although they all have a large anaerobic component.

An Optimal Interset Rest Period For Strength Recovery During A Common Isokinetic Test

“…The major contributors to this 10-s work performance were estimated at 53%, 44%, and 3% for the phosphagenic, glycolytic, and oxidative pathways, respectively (Serresse et al, 1988). In contrast, when performing a 90-s work performance, the major contributors to energy production were estimated at 12%, 42%, and 46% for the phosphagenic, glycolytic, and oxidative pathways, respectively (Serresse et al, 1988). When reviewing the literature, the maximal power of the ATP-PC system has been found to vary from 1-15-s (Conley, 2000;Foss & Keteyian, 1998;McArdle, Katch & Katch, 2001;Wilmore & Costill, 1999).…”

“…If the intensity is maximal then the duration will be short since the energy pathway will be primarily anaerobic (Adams, 2002;Foss & Keteyian, 1998;Serresse, Lortie, Bouchard, & Boulay, 1988). To illustrate this, Serresse et al (1988) demonstrated the relationship of the time course of exercise being indicative of the energy system utilized during a 10-s work performance on a cycle ergometer.…”

“…The reason this physiological scenario is intriguing concerning the current findings, is that a likely explanation for fatigue not being a confounding factor can be found in the incredible resiliency of the human energy systems working cohesively. For example, it is well understood that energy system utilization works collaboratively rather than exclusively (Serresse et al, 1988). Thus, a specific energy system is emphasized while others contribute slightly or are trivial in contribution (Serresse et al, 1988).…”

“…To illustrate this, Serresse et al (1988) demonstrated the relationship of the time course of exercise being indicative of the energy system utilized during a 10-s work performance on a cycle ergometer. The major contributors to this 10-s work performance were estimated at 53%, 44%, and 3% for the phosphagenic, glycolytic, and oxidative pathways, respectively (Serresse et al, 1988).…”

“…To illustrate this, Serresse et al (1988) demonstrated the relationship of the time course of exercise being indicative of the energy system utilized during a 10-s work performance on a cycle ergometer. The major contributors to this 10-s work performance were estimated at 53%, 44%, and 3% for the phosphagenic, glycolytic, and oxidative pathways, respectively (Serresse et al, 1988). In contrast, when performing a 90-s work performance, the major contributors to energy production were estimated at 12%, 42%, and 46% for the phosphagenic, glycolytic, and oxidative pathways, respectively (Serresse et al, 1988).…”