Article

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the anaerobic threshold (AT) can be identified
in individuals with postpolio syndrome (PPS) using submaximal incremental
exercise testing, and to compare current guidelines for intensity prescription in
PPS with the AT. DESIGN: Cohort study. SETTING: Research laboratory.
PARTICIPANTS: Individuals with PPS (N=82). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN
OUTCOME MEASURES: Power output, gas exchange variables, heart rate, and rating of
perceived exertion (RPE) were measured in an incremental submaximal cycle
ergometry test. Two independent observers identified the AT. Comparison of
current guidelines for training intensity prescription in PPS (40%-60% heart rate
reserve [HRR] or RPE of 12) with the AT was based on correlations between
recommended heart rate and the heart rate at the AT. In addition, we determined
the proportion of individuals that would have been recommended to train at an
intensity corresponding to their AT. RESULTS: The AT was identified in 63 (77%)
of the participants. Pearson correlation coefficients between the recommended
heart rate and the heart rate at the AT were lower in cases of 40% HRR (r=.56)
and 60% HRR (r=.50) than in cases of prescription based on the RPE (r=.86). Based
on the RPE, 55% of the individuals would have been recommended to train at an
intensity corresponding to their AT. This proportion was higher compared with 40%
HRR (41%) or 60% HRR (18%) as criterion. CONCLUSIONS: The AT can be identified in
most individuals with PPS offering an individualized target for aerobic training.
If the AT cannot be identified (eg, because gas analysis equipment is not
available), intensity prescription can best be based on the RPE.
CI - Copyright (c) 2014 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by
Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS