Measurements of energy expenditure

Question 1

Why is it important to measure energy expenditure?

Answer 1

• Provides accurate/objective measure
• Ensures training is at the correct intensity
• Monitor improvements over time

Question 2

What are the names of the different measurements?

Answer 2

• Lactate Sampling
• V02 Max Test
• Indirect Calorimetry
• Respiratory exchange ratio

Question 3

Describe lactate sampling

Answer 3

• Measures intensity of OBLA occured (blood lactate reached 4mmol)
• Ensure performance intensity remained below lactate threshold
• Use data to train to improve aerobic endurance at increasing set intensities
• Re-test to monitor improvements over time

Question 4

Describe the stages of the V02 max test

Answer 4

• Involves treadmill
• Effort is sufficient in energy and intensity to fully tax the aerobic energy system
• Exercise intensity is progressively increased
  -Ventilation is measured to calculate oxygen and carbon dioxide concentration of inhaled and exhaled air
• V02 max reached when oxygen consumption remains at a steady state despite an increased workload

Question 5

Explain indirect calorimetry

Answer 5

• Technique that measures the production of carbon dioxide in expired air and consumption of oxygen in inhaled air
• Provides energy expenditure information

Question 6

Explain respiratory exchange ratio (RER)

Answer 6

• Ratio of carbon dioxide breathed out to oxygen breathed in
• Calculated using ergometer and gas analyser
• Works as an indicator of fat and carb breakdown
• High score indicates carb use (anaerobic) and low score indicates fat use (aerobic)