Comparison of sport-specific and non-specific exercise testing in inline speed skating

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Performance Measurement

Background:

• The optimal method for assessing exercise performance in inline speed skating (ISS) remains undetermined.
• Athletes commonly undergo non-specific cycling (CYC) or running (RUN) tests.
• This study evaluates if a sport-specific ISS incremental test yields different outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the results of incremental exhaustive tests in inline speed skating (ISS), cycling (CYC), and running (RUN).
• To determine the validity of traditional tests for assessing ISS performance.
• To identify the most accurate testing method for inline speed skaters.

Main Methods:

• Eight elite male inline speed skaters participated in the study.
• Participants completed incremental exhaustive tests on CYC, RUN, and ISS in a randomized order.
• Key physiological markers including heart rate (HR), oxygen uptake (V̇O2), energy expenditure (EE), and blood lactate concentration (BLC) were measured.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were found in peak HR, BLC, V̇O2, or EE between ISS, CYC, and RUN tests.
• Similar results were observed for HR and V̇O2 at submaximal intensities (2 and 4 mmol·L-1 BLC).
• Considerable variability and moderate effect sizes indicate limited comparability between the testing modes.

Conclusions:

• Cycling and running tests can serve as viable alternatives for assessing inline speed skating performance.
• A sport-specific inline speed skating test is advisable when definitive results are required, particularly for elite athletes or scientific research.
• The choice of testing method should consider the need for precision and the specific application.