Keller, B. A., Jones, M. T., Sigg, J. A., Harnish, C., & Ferriss, J. A. (1996). Prediction of blood lactate from recovery heart rate and power in collegiate oarsmen on a Concept II ergometer. Medicine and Science in Exercise and Sports, 28(5), Supplement abstract 416.

Post-exercise heart rate (HR) for a given velocity (HR/VEL) has been used to predict blood lactate response (LA/VEL) for runners and swimmers. This study found a significant relationship between the indices in rowers performing tasks of 3 min duration at constant workloads. However, when actual predictions were made they were normally 25% in error.

It was suggested that HR and velocity could be used as an index of training adaptations over a season.

Implication. Predicting LA from HR in rowers, while statistically significant in the observed relationship of this study, in practical terms is too erroneous for precise training program prescription. However, using HR and VEL could be one measure of training adaptation but it would need to be supported by another, preferably modality different, measurement.

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