Corder, K., Potteiger, J., Nau, K., Figoni, S., & Hershberger, S. (1998). Effects of active and passive recovery on lactate, RPE, and performance during resistance training. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 30(5), Supplement abstract 194.

Resistance-trained males (N = 15) completed five testing sessions: a lactate threshold and maximal aerobic power test on a cycle ergometer, a 10-repetition maximum test on a squat exercise, and three squat workouts. Workouts were followed by one of three different recovery conditions (passive-sitting; cycling at 70 rpm at 25% lactate threshold intensity, and cycling at 70 rpm at 50% lactate threshold intensity).

Ss recovered faster and better after the 25% lactate threshold intensity exercise. Performance on a maximal repetition test to exhaustion was also best after that condition.

Implication. Following resistance exercise a very light load continuous aerobic exercise promotes the fastest and most complete recovery.

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