Analysis of the kinetics of lactate removal in slalom kayak athletes

The aim of this study was to verify the kinetics of lactate production and removal in slalom kayak athletes, K1 category, during official competition. Eight male athletes (22,6 ± 4,3 years) participated of the study. For the analysis of lactate, 25µL of capillary blood were collected. The kinetics of lactate removal was performed before the warm-up (Pre), just after the competitors exit from the river (Post 0'), 5 (Post 5'), and 20 (Post 20') minutes. The results demonstrated a significant increase in lactate concentrations (9.8 mmol/l, 9.4 mmol/l and 6.6 mmol/l) at 0', 5' and 20' post respectively, with values of P<0.01. The findings indicate that after 20 minutes the values of lactate reduced significantly (P<0.05) compared to Pre exercise, suggesting that the athletes would indicate good metabolic conditions for the second turn of the race.

Blood lactate; high-intensity exercise; competition; Athletes