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Comparison of continuous and intermittent multistage maximal exercise testing during beta-adrenoceptor blockade in
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|February 1, 1987
Summary
Intermittent exercise testing better reflects maximal cardiorespiratory capacity than continuous testing, especially when using propranolol. This finding is crucial for accurately assessing fitness in individuals on beta-blockers.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Cardiovascular Pharmacology
Background:
- Propranolol, a beta-blocker, can attenuate maximal heart rate and oxygen consumption during exercise.
- The choice of exercise testing protocol may influence the observed cardiorespiratory responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare cardiorespiratory responses to continuous versus intermittent maximal treadmill tests with and without propranolol.
- To determine if the exercise protocol affects the degree of propranolol's impact on maximal exercise capacity.
Main Methods:
- 11 healthy males underwent maximal treadmill tests using continuous and intermittent protocols.
- Tests were conducted with both placebo and propranolol administration.
- Maximal heart rate and oxygen consumption were measured.
Main Results:
- With placebo, maximal oxygen consumption was slightly higher (2%) with intermittent testing.
- During propranolol treatment, intermittent testing yielded higher maximal heart rates (5.1%) and oxygen consumption (4.4%) compared to continuous testing.
- Both protocols showed significantly lower values with propranolol than with placebo.
Conclusions:
- The impact of propranolol on maximal exercise capacity is protocol-dependent.
- Intermittent testing may provide a more accurate assessment of maximal cardiorespiratory capacity in individuals taking propranolol.