AUT - Physiology Services
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Physiology Services
The AUT Sport Performance Research Centre is located at the Millennium Institute of Sport and Health. The laboratory provides a facility for sport and exercise physiology athlete assessment. The laboratory is accredited by Sport and Exercise Science New Zealand and also serves an important role for the physiology support for the New Zealand Academy of Sport.
Our physiology services include:
VO2max Testing
VO2max tests are an excellent first evaluation. This test gives a good picture of overall aerobic fitness level and performance potential. The maximum ability to utilise oxygen (VO2max or VO2peak) is generally measured using a graded exercise test to exhaustion. During this assessment the individual exercises at progressively increasing workloads on an appropriate ergometer (e.g. treadmill, rowing ergometer, or bike) while the volume and composition of the air breathed out is measured.
A detailed and highly accurate report of the status of your cardiovascular fitness as well as your training zones will be compiled after the test.
Lactate Testing
The blood lactate profile is the most important predictor of endurance performance potential in steady-state events, such as cycling time trials, rowing, triathlon and running races (especially marathons). The lactate profile test is the gold standard used by elite endurance athletes to determine optimal training intensities and is the most effective way to track the progress of training.
A lactate threshold test is conducted on a treadmill/cycle/rowing erg and gradually increasing the speed/power every 3-5 minutes. After each stage, blood is taken from a finger prick (or from the ear lobe) and the lactate concentration is measured.
After this testing, athletes receive a detailed report that contains individualised training intensity zones based on heart rate and intensity.
Wingate Anaerobic Peak Power Test
A 10, 30 or 60 second maximal ergometer sprint test, designed according to specific sporting needs, is used to quantify anaerobic abilities. This test provides a measurement of peak power production, as well as the ability to resist fatigue. The athlete exercises at maximum intensity for the allotted period of time, while the power output is recorded every 5 seconds. High power output and lactate values indicate a good anaerobic capacity, whereas low power output and lactate values indicate that specific training is required.