Aerobic FIT & Aerobic FIT with Lactate Threshold Test
The early stages of an aerobic fit assessment, slow speed and low grade.
What is aerobic fitness?
Aerobic fitness is the ability of the heart, lungs, and blood vessels to deliver oxygen to working muscles and for the muscles to then use this oxygen to produce energy. The more oxygen used during maximal or peak aerobic exercise, the better is one's aerobic fitness level. The maximal amount of oxygen used is known as maximal oxygen uptake or VO2max. Aerobic FIT is ideal for the beginning exerciser and those primarily interested in fitness because the results are used to design, improve, and evaluate your aerobic exercise program. Aerobic FIT is also ideal for distance runners, cyclists and triathletes because we do an in-depth analysis of several key physiological performance variables.
How does FIT assess aerobic fitness?
Aerobic FIT measures VO2max with a metabolic cart during a treadmill or stationary bike test. Maximal heart rate and training heart rate zones are also determined. The test is a maximal test for men under 45 years of age and women under 55 years of age who do not have an increased risk for heart disease. Other individuals perform a sub maximal test. Click here for sample results from Aerobic FIT for those primarily interested in fitness.
Heart rate is monitored throughout the test.
Lactate threshold testing
Individuals competing in endurance events such as running, cycling and triathalons can also have their lactate threshold determined during the aerobic endurance fitness test. These individuals receive the same information as described above, but a different test protocol is utilized. A small amount of blood is taken to measure lactate and additional information is analyzed. For distance runners (1) peak running speed, (2) running speed and heart rate at lactate threshold, (3) training heart rate zones are predicted and (4) 5K, 10K, and marathon times are determined. For endurance cyclists, (1) maximal VO2 and power output, (2) VO2, power output and heart rate at lactate threshold and (3) training heart rate zones are determined.
- Click below for more information:
Physiological Determinants of Distance Running Performance - An explanation of different factors related to the performace of distance running.
- Physiological Determinants of Cycling Performance
- An explanation of different factors related to the performace of cycling.
Treadmill and metabolic equipment for measurement of oxygen uptake and ventilatory threshold.
Why is aerobic fitness important?
Aerobic fitness is important for health, fitness, and quality of life. Normal daily activities and recreational and sport activities require our heart and lungs to delivery oxygen and nutrients to and from the muscles. An optimal level of aerobic fitness makes doing these activities easier and more enjoyable. Adequate amounts of aerobic exercise and higher levels of aerobic fitness are also associated with lower risks for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. Click here for normative data on aerobic fitness.
What are the benefits of a lactate threshold test?
This test determines the lactate threshold during exercise, which can be used to aid in determining an appropriate training intensity and monitor progression in athletes.
The final stages of an aerobic fir assessment, faster speed and higher grade.
This test is done in conjunction with a VO2max test, but with slightly longer periods of time between changes in workload. This test involves several blood samples taken from the ear/finger for the assessment of blood lactate. This test can be done on either the treadmill or bike ergometer.
How much does Aerobic FIT cost?
- UT Affiliates $75
- General Public $90
- With Lactate Threshold test UT $115 / Non UT $130
How do I prepare for Aerobic FIT?
- Do not exercise vigorously on the day of your testing.
- Do not eat for 3 hours prior to testing.
- Bring or wear your exercise clothes.
- Lockers and showers are available.
- Cyclists may want to bring their own pedals and cycling shoes.
Where is the testing conducted?
The testing is conducted in Bellmont Hall room 966.
How long does testing take?
The testing and results consultation take 2.0 hours.
How do I make an appointment?
Call the FIT office at 471-0081.
How do I pay?
You pay at the time of testing with cash or check.
What about parking?
You will receive a Visitor's Parking Permit from the FIT staff when you arrive for testing. Refer to Parking Instructions for further information.
Aerobic FIT Packages:
