Validation of non-exhaustive test to determine the aerobic capacity in swimming

Several methods of aerobic capacity evaluation have been applied to assess and prescribe the training sessions in swimming. However, most protocols either show exhaustive characteristics, triggering transitory stress period or several visits, influencing the session's organization. Thus, the purpose was to validate a double-bout exercise protocol for non-exhaustive aerobic capacity determination of swimmers.

Twelve swimmers were submitted to non-exhaustive and Maximal Lactate Steady State (MLSS) protocols. Non-exhaustive double effort test (NEDE) was performed into 4 sessions with randomized intensities 60-80 s/100 m. Sessions were divided in two bouts with same intensity, duration (180 s) and interval (90 s). Linear interpolation of heart rate difference (∆HR) and lactate difference (∆Lac) enabled determination of a "null" delta. NEDE and MLSS were performed for determination of reproducibility and validity respectively.

The velocity (s/100 m) measured by Δ HR (test 75.16±0.84; retest 74.81±0.75) and ΔLac (test 75.08±0.87; retest 75.14±0.81) did not differ from MLSS (74.00±1.20). Significant correlation was found between test and retest for HR (P=0.001), Lac concentration (P=0.001) and MLSS (HR test P=0.0001; HR retest P=0.0001; Lac test P=0.002; Lac retest P=0.0001).

In conclusion, non-exhaustive double test evaluated by ΔHR and ΔLac was reproducible and valid to determine the aerobic capacity in swimming.