Effects of endurance training on VO_2maxand submaximal blood lactate concentrations of untrained sled dogs

Abstract

Abstract Five previously untrained yearling sled dogs were evaluated for endurance training-induced changes in maximum oxygen consumption (VO 2max ) and submaximal blood lactate concentrations. Following 3 weeks of light training followed by 4 weeks of moderate training, VO 2max increased by 10%, from 180.2 ± 9.9 to 198.7 ± 19.2 ml kg min − 1 ( P = 0.046). Light training was not associated with any increase in VO 2max . Blood lactate concentrations at the same absolute intensity decreased by 215%, from 9.2 ± 4.7 to 4.3 ± 2.4 mmol l − 1 ( P = 0.022). Speeds associated with oxygen consumptions of 70% VO 2max increased by 12%, from 4.8 ± 0.4 to 5.4 ± 0.5 m s − 1 ( P = 0.008) and speeds associated with VO 2max increased by 21%, from 6.7 ± 0.3 to 8.2 ± 0.7 m s − 1 ( P = 0.012).