Optimal active recovery intensity in standardbreds after submaximal work

Area of Science:

• Equine exercise physiology
• Sports science

Background:

• Spontaneous active recovery in trotters averages 40-50% of maximal heart rate (max HR).
• Optimal active recovery for human athletes is 60-70% of max HR.
• The efficiency of spontaneous recovery in trotters remains unconfirmed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of different recovery intensities in trotters.
• To determine the optimal recovery intensity for post-exercise in trotters.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-seven trotters underwent a standardized exercise test.
• Horses were assigned to passive recovery, 10-min walk (100 m/min), slow trot (250 m/min), or fast trot (420 m/min) recovery groups.
• Physiological parameters including heart rate, blood lactate, respiratory frequency, and temperature were monitored.

Main Results:

• Recovery intensities corresponded to 45-50% (walk), 55-60% (slow trot), and 65-70% (fast trot) of max HR.
• Higher intensity recovery significantly reduced heart rate and blood lactate concentrations.
• Creatine kinase levels were also monitored post-exercise.

Conclusions:

• The most effective recovery strategy was a 10-minute fast trot at 65-70% max HR.
• This high-intensity recovery facilitates optimal blood lactate disappearance.
• Trotter recovery protocols should be intensified to enhance efficiency, moving beyond current trainer practices.