Physiologic responses of older recreational alpine skiers to different skiing modes

We measured physiological variables in nine older recreational skiers (62.6 +/- 5.1 years) who completed a maximal cycle ergometry test and four different skiing modes via ski instructor-guided skiing at moderate altitude. During testing, we measured heart rate (HR), oxygen uptake (VO(2)), blood lactate concentration (LA), blood pressure (BP) and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE). The mean values in the laboratory were: HR(max) 167 +/- 7.9 bpm, VO(2peak) of 35.7 +/- 5.1 ml kg(-1) min(-1), LA(max) 8.9 +/- 2.4 mmol l(-1) and BP of 228/91 mmHg. The average values of field compared to laboratory test ranged from 48 to 94% of HR(max), VO(2) of 22-66% of VO(2peak), LA of 0.7-6.0 mmol l(-1), RPE during on-snow was 6-17, while BP remained at submaximal level during field tests. Weak correlation was found between laboratory and field tests. Our results suggest that aerobic metabolism predominates on flat and low intensity steep slopes and transitions to anaerobic metabolism on steeper high intensity runs.