Beckett, K. D., & Steigbigel, K. (1993). Effects of warm down techniques on the removal of lactic acid following maximal human performance. The Journal of Swimming Research, 9, 32-35.

This study compared an active cool-down with a passive cool-down for effects on removal rate of lactic acid from the blood following maximal exercise. College swimmers (M = 8; F = 8) served as Ss. Blood lactate levels were measured at rest, following maximal exercise, and twice during the prescribed form of cool-down.

Ss displayed significantly elevated levels of blood lactate after the maximal exercise. Both passive and active cool-downs significantly decreased the level of post-exercise blood lactate. Active cool-down produced faster lactate removal.

Implication. When time is restricted post-exercise (race) an active cool-down will produce faster lactate removal.

Return to Table of Contents for Training for Swimming.