Value of the Application of the Heart Rate Performance Curve in Sports

Abstract

The heart rate performance curve (HRPC) has been shown to be nonlinearly related to work load. This phenomenon has been used to determine a defection point and to be related to the lactate anaerobic threshold. The original method was heavily criticized, and the method was challenged by several authors. However, some authors also demonstrated a high value for this method’s application in various sports conditions. Unfortunately, the HRPC was shown to be not uniform and three different patterns were found. Basic investigations have shown a dependence of the HR-defection on beta1-receptor sensitivity, which gave a plausible explanation of the phenomenon. Important details regarding the testing protocol and the method of turn point determination are given in this review. As a conclusion, we may state that based on numerous studies the method is plausible and valid to determine aerobic exercise performance in various laboratory ergometer and specific sports-related field conditions. Standard protocol conditions adjusted to the exercise performance level of subjects and a computer-supported determination of turn points are necessary to obtain reliable results. Large-scale investigations to validate the heart rate turn point with maximal lactate steady state are still needed. However, from the available literature, the application of this noninvasive method can be recommended to determine aerobic exercise performance in various sports. This noninvasive test is easy to perform repeatedly, which gives interesting possibilities for the monitoring of training adaptation in the short term, such as altitude training or specifc taper forms.

Heart Rate Performance Curve Is Dependent on Age, Sex, and Performance

“…Underlying physiological regulations such as a parasympathetic or sympathetic influences, as well as the relationship to left ventricular function on the degree and direction of HRPC deflection, have been investigated in several studies compiled in a review (6). The most plausible and actually valid explanation for the different HRPC patterns was found for β1-receptor sensitivity shown by our study group (9).…”

Heart rate dynamics during cardio-pulmonary exercise testing are associated with glycemic control in individuals with type 1 diabetes

“…From a physiological point of view the main cause for the HRTP can be seen in the β 1 -receptor sensitivity to the catecholamine response [ 9 ]. Hofmann et al investigated the response to a single dose of the β 1 -selective antagonist bisoprolol in healthy individuals [ 10 ].…”

Narita Target Heart Rate Equation Underestimates the Predicted Adequate Exercise Level in Sedentary Young Boys

“…These differences in the methodological approach have led to controversy on the physiological basis of what is called the ‘AT’ and even more confusion concerning the noninvasive determination of the AT via gas exchange parameters during exercise [23, 24] .…”