Can the talk test identify maximal lactate steady state?

Abstract

Introduction: The Talk Test (TT) has been shown to be an effective sun·ogate of standard methods of prescribing exercise training intensity. This study was designed to evaluate if the talk test can identify MLSS. Methods: Apparently healthy triathletes (N~I2) volunteered and served as subjects. Each subject perfotmed two incremental exercise tests on a cycle ergometer to measure VT, RCT, and V02max and to identify stages of the TT (LP-1, LP, EQ, NEG). Subsequently, subjects performed 30 minute steady rides at a constant power output to determine MLSS. In all of the tests and trials, HR and RPE (Borg 0-10 scale) were collected. During the MLSS trials, blood lactate was measured. Results: The PO measurements indicated that the NEG TT stage occurred at a PO that was significantly greater than the MLSS PO. The LP-1 TT occurred at a PO that was significantly lower than the MLSS PO, while the PO at the LP TT was not significantly different than the PO of the MLSS. Conclusion: The combined observations suggest if the TT is clamped at the NEG, the exercise intensity will be higher than the MLSS, which occurs close to the intensity of the LP TT during incremental exercise.