Comerford, S. R., Cordain, L., & Melby, C. L. (1997). Reliability of the measurement of excess post-exercise oxygen consumption following two identically controlled cycling bouts. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 29(5), Supplement abstract 1108.

Two identical controlled bouts of cycle-ergometer exercise were performed by active males (N = 7) and excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) measured. Results were evaluated for the degree of replication (reliability).

It was found that measures of EPOC varied significantly within the same Ss on separate occasions even though the protocol and conditions were as identical as could feasibly be constructed.

Implication. Generalizations and implications from single measures of EPOC should not be strongly considered because test results are likely to be unreliable. This is a measure that should be "shelved" until a better, more reliable procedure is developed.

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