The slow component of VO2 uptake kinetics during high-intensity exercise in prepubertal children.

Aim - The aim of the present study was to investigate the VO2 uptake slow component in prepubertal children of different aerobic capacity during high intensity exercise. Method - Twenty three (12 well-trained and 11 untrained) prepubertal children took part in two constant-power tests performed at intensities corresponding to 80% of the anaerobic threshold and 90% of maximal aerobic power. VO2 kinetics during both constant-power tests was determine using a monoexponential + linear term model. Results/conclusion - Our results demonstrated the existence of a slow component during heavy intensity exercise in prepubertal children, as previously described in adults. The magnitude of this slow component did not differ between trained swimmers and untrained children exercising at the same relative intensity, provided that the whole VO2 response was considered. (C) 2001 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.