Comparison of self-selected recovery methods on lactic acid removal rates

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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare lactic acid removal rates during 3 modes of recovery from a standardized exercise bout. Each subject (N = 6) completed 1 mile run (92.2 .+-. 3.7% .ovrhdot.VO2 max). Thereafter, lactic acid removal rates were compared in the runners of each of 3 different modes of recovery: rest, a self-selected, continuous jogging pace (free-jogging) and completely uncontrolled recovery (free-intermittent) normally practiced by athletes. Venous blood samples were taken immediately after the mile run and every 5 min thereafter for 20 min. Data were expressed relative to the initial post-exercise blood sample (100%). Lactic acid removal was significantly faster during the free-jogging recovery than during the free-intermittent and the resting recoveries (P < 0.001). Removal rates during the free-intermittent recovery were significantly faster than during the resting recovery (P < 0.001). Nearly optimal lactic acid removal rates were attained during the free-jogging recovery.