Hamlin, M. J. (2007). The effect of recovery modality on blood lactate removal and subsequent repetitive sprint performance in netball players. New Zealand Journal of Sports Medicine, 34, 12-17.

This study compared the effectiveness of three different recovery modalities on subsequent blood lactate concentration and repetitive sprint performance in university netball players (N = 20). Ss were given a contrast temperature water therapy, cold water immersion, or passive recovery between two repeated sprint tests performed two hours apart.

Contrast temperature water therapy enhanced the removal of blood lactate immediately post-intervention, but did not influence a repeated sprint performance performed two hours later.

Implication. Contrast temperature water therapy (usually cold water or ice bath alternated with hot showering) is an effective method for reducing blood lactate post-exercise.

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