Fernandes, R. J., Sousa, A., Figueiredo, P., Keskinen, K. L., Rogriguez, F. A., Machado, L., & Vilas-Boas, J. P. (2011). Modeling off-transient oxygen uptake kinetics after maximal 200-m swims. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 43(5). Supplement abstract 1663.

"The off-transient VO2 kinetics depends on the intensity of the preceding exercise, and has been described for moderate to severe intensity domains. However, at power outputs that lead to exhaustion before VO2max is attained (extreme exercise), the VO2 dynamics have been scarcely studied, being not known which VO2 model best fits the data at this domain."

This investigation described the off-transient VO2 kinetics subsequent to a maximal 200-m swim, comparing single and double exponential models. Elite male swimmers (N = 8; ~22 years performed a maximal 200-m front crawl effort in a 25-m pool. VO2 was measured breath-by-breath and averaged every five seconds during exercise and recovery using a portable gas analyzer connected to a low resistance snorkel. The fitting procedure started at the recovery phase, assuming a TD=0.

There was no amplitude or time-constant difference between the VO2 off-kinetics estimated parameters using both models. Only a fast decrease in VO2 was observed (no slow component phase appeared).

Implication. VO2 dynamics in 200-m swimming efforts can be modeled successfully. No evidence of slow component is revealed and thus, not included in the model. Only alactacid and aerobic exercise demands are revealed in the recovery dynamics of high-intensity swimming.

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