Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the validity of the Lactate Minimum Test (LMT) for the determination of peakVO2 on a cycle ergometer and to determine the submaximal oxygen uptake (™VO2) and pulmonary ventilation (VE) responses in an incremental exercise test when it is preceded by high intensity exercise (i.e., during a LMT). Methods: Ten trained male athletes (triathletes and cyclists) performed 2 exercise tests in random order on an electromagnetic cycle ergometer: 1) Control Test (CT): an incremental test with an initial work rate of 100 W, and with 25 W increments at 3-min intervals, until voluntary exhaustion; 2) LMT: an incremental test identical to the CT, except that it was preceded by 2 supramaximal bouts of 30-sec (~120%VO2peak) with a 30-sec rest to induce lactic acidosis. This test started 8 min after the induction of acidosis. Results: There was no significant difference in peakVO2 (65.6±7.4 ml.kg-1.min-1; 63.8 ± 7.5 ml.kg-1.min-1 to CT and LMT, respectively). However, the maximal power output (POmax) reached was significantly higher in CT (300.6±15.7 W) than in the LMT (283.2±16.0 W).VO2 and VE were significantly increased at initial power outputs in LMT. Conclusion: Although the LMT alters the submaximal physiological responses during the incremental phase (greater initial metabolic cost), this protocol is valid to evaluate peak ™VO2, although the POmax reached is also reduced.
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