Energy Metabolism

We measure key metabolic parameters essential for evaluating human bioenergetic function, including cardiac and pulmonary efficiency, oxygen consumption (V˙O2​), carbon dioxide production (V˙CO2​), blood lactate levels, and heart rate kinetics.

Among the various tests used to assess the physiological profile of athletes—particularly those in endurance disciplines—is the measurement of Maximal Oxygen Uptake (V˙O2​max). This parameter is determined during exercise involving large muscle groups at an intensity sufficient to maximally stress the aerobic system. Standard modalities include walking or running on a motorized treadmill or using a cycle ergometer. V˙O2​max can also be assessed in specific contexts such as open-water swimming, skating, simulated climbing, rowing, and arm-crank ergometry (the latter particularly for paraplegic athletes).

To verify the attainment of true V˙O2​max, the incremental exercise test must reach a point where oxygen consumption remains stable despite an increase in workload (the plateau). When a plateau is not observed, or if the test is terminated early due to muscular fatigue, the result is defined as Peak Oxygen Consumption (V˙O2​peak), representing the highest value recorded during the test.

V˙O2​max is considered achieved when several of the following criteria are met:

• Volitional exhaustion (the subject can no longer maintain the required intensity).
• Failure of V˙O2​ to increase with further increases in workload (plateau).
• A Respiratory Exchange Ratio (RER) exceeding 1.05.
• Heart rate approaching the age-predicted maximum (HRmax​=220−age).
• Blood lactate concentration reaching approximately 8–10 mMol/L.

Our wide range of ergometers allows for sport-specific testing:

• Electromagnetically braked cycle ergometer.
• High-performance motorized treadmill.
• Spin trainer (allowing athletes to use their own bicycles).

Hypoxic testing simulates high-altitude conditions to evaluate physical performance in oxygen-reduced environments. Our system allows for the adjustment of the Fraction of Inspired Oxygen (FiO2​) from 10.5% to 60%, simulating altitudes up to 5,500 meters. The system provides the high ventilatory flow rates (up to 200 L/min) required for intensive, full-effort training.

Mechanism:

The equipment reduces the oxygen concentration in the inspired air. The device precisely regulates air composition, allowing for the setting of various levels of hypoxia, as well as hypercapnia (excess CO2​) or hyperoxia.

Applications:

Ideal for professional and amateur athletes preparing for high-altitude competitions or seeking to stimulate specific physiological adaptations in a controlled environment.

Scientific Research:

The device is also used to conduct fundamental research on human responses to hypoxia, hypercapnia, and hyperoxia.

In addition to ventilatory gas exchange measurements, we assess peripheral oxygen consumption using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS). This non-invasive technique uses infrared light to analyze muscle and brain tissue, determining oxygen availability through oxyhemoglobin (HbO2​) and deoxyhemoglobin (HHb) levels. It provides real-time monitoring of how muscles and the brain utilize oxygen during activity, offering a sophisticated alternative to invasive blood sampling.

Lactate concentration testing is utilized to accurately identify metabolic and training thresholds for various sporting disciplines, facilitating precise intensity zoning.

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) represents the energy expenditure required for the metabolic activity of organs and tissues under highly standardized conditions. It is defined as the energy spent by an individual at complete physical and psychosensory rest, in a thermoneutral environment, and in a post-absorptive state (12–14 hours after the last meal).

BMR accounts for the energy used for the body’s essential internal functions. In a healthy sedentary individual, BMR represents approximately 60–70% of Total Daily Energy Expenditure (TDEE). This expenditure is primarily attributed to fat-free mass (lean mass). Specifically, the liver, brain, heart, and kidneys—while representing only about 5–6% of body weight—are responsible for 60–70% of BMR. Muscle mass (approx. 35–40% of body weight) contributes 20–25%. Accurate knowledge of BMR is fundamental for establishing correct nutritional and caloric requirements.

Our extensive range of heart rate monitors allows for the precise measurement and recording of heart rate during all types of physical activity, which can then be correlated with the data obtained from laboratory-based functional tests.