Can the talk test indentify the respiratory compensation threshold?

Abstract

Introduction: The Talk Test has shown to be an effective way of determining prescribed exercise intensity and its responsiveness to physiological markers such as ventilatory threshold (VT) and respiratory compensation threshold (RCT) in a variety of populations. The purpose of this study is to extend the results of previous studies to determine if the RCT is correlated with the negative stage of the TT. Methods: Well-trained athletes (n=12) performed two incremental tests. One test included measurement of respiratory gas exchange to determine VT and RCT. The other test involved performing the TT during an identical exercise protocol. Subjects read a standard paragraph 90-100 words at the end of each exercise stage and reported their ability to speak comfortably. Results: There was a moderate strong correlation between VT and LP along with RCT and NEG TT. There was significant differences between mean Watts at VT and mean Watts at the EQTT. The results suggest at the VT is slightly higher than the EQTT and the LPTT. Conclusion: The TT may be used as a simple and non-invasive method to determining exercise intensity for well-trained athletes.