Research and Studies

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse, examine the research validating the talk test as a way of identifying ventilatory markers, particularly the respiratory compensation threshold (RCT), also known as the second ventilatory threshold (VT2). While the science presented in this article is rather complex, there are some clear and practical implications for health and fitness professionals who are training athletes.

Can short-term use of sauna suits during training help athletes acclimate to the heat prior to competition? ACE enlisted researchers at Western State Colorado University to investigate whether wearing the Kutting Weight sauna suits would provide adequate heat acclimation to improve performance during an endurance event.

You’ve undoubtedly told your clients with predominately sedentary jobs to try to move around during the day, to get up and stretch or walk around the block. But is that really enough to combat the negative effects of prolonged sitting? In this latest ACE-sponsored study, researchers set out to identify the optimal FIT (frequency, intensity and time) for reducing sedentary behavior to improve cardiometabolic health in middle-age and older adults.

The company behind HOKA shoes claims that the ultra-padded soles of their shoes extend the time during which forces are applied, lower ground reaction forces and improve running form. To determine the validity of those claims, ACE sponsored two distinct studies, the first looking at the effect of HOKA shoes on running speed, as well as running mechanics and resultant forces, and the second exploring whether the shoes alter the energy cost of running when compared to a standard running shoe.

Recovery from exercise training is a vital component of the overall exercise program, and is essential for optimal performance and continued progression. To help determine the best recovery strategy for optimizing the benefits derived from a training program, ACE enlisted a team of researchers at Western State Colorado University to investigate the effects of recovery on performance.