Our lab specializes in running footwear economy testing. In the new age of "Super Shoes", performance can be optimized on race day based on which shoe an athlete chooses to compete. Our running economy testing can help you make this decision with confidence. For this testing, athletes can bring in several pairs of racing shoe options and we determine economy by measuring oxygen consumption/energy expenditure over several submaximal repetitions somewhere between half-marathon and marathon race pace. 

The maximum volume of oxygen that can be consumed is both a key marker of cardiovascular health and predictor of endurance exercise performance. The VO2 max test can be performed on the treadmill or cycle ergometer. The results from this maximal test can be used to track changes in fitness over time as well as prescribe training intensities for key interval sessions. 

The lactate threshold is an important marker of endurance potential as it indicates the intensity at which lactate begins to accumulate in the blood at faster rates. While this is not necessarily the direct cause of fatigue during exercise, exercise above this threshold requires greater contributions from anaerobic metabolism and cannot be sustained for long durations. Therefore, the lactate threshold is an important marker as it indicates the intensity or percentage of your VO2 Max that can be maintained  for prolonged periods of time. Training at or near this threshold is thought to improve this key physiological variable. This test requires exercise at multiple submaximal intensities where blood lactate is obtained and analyzed from a simple finger prick capillary blood sample. 

In simplest form, body composition can be broken down into an individual's lean mass and fat mass. Body composition can be tracked over time as both a marker of fitness/training adaptations and health-related fitness. We offer body composition assessments via air displacement plethysmography with BODPOD. 

Sometimes we need some initial guidance on how to get started with a fitness or training plan, or maybe you are looking for some feedback on your current training. For these instances, we offer training consultations with an exercise physiologist with a background in running and triathlon.