The Aerobic and Anaerobic Components of Work during Submaximal Exercise on a Bicycle Ergometer

Abstract

Inter-subject variability of oxygen intake ([Vdot]O₂)n relation to the anaerobic component of work has been investigated intensely on two healthy subjects and extensively on two groups of young and older men during work on an upright, stationary bicycle ergometer.

Significant differences (p<0·001) in [Vdot]O₂ were shown to exist between the two groups of subjects and the healthy men at the higher work-loads which could not be eliminated entirely by correction for body weight. The residual variation of [Vdot]O₂ on work-load was shown to be a consequence of the variation of anaerobic component of exercise. During work on a bicycle ergometer at exercise above about 50% [Vdot] O₂ max this should be taken into account if a valid assessment of energy expenditure is to be made.