Second-order simultaneous components model for the overshoot and “slow component” in V̇O2 kinetics

Abstract

The human oxygen uptake responses to exercise step on-transients present different shapes depending on the overshoot and/or the “slow component” manifestations. The conventional First-Order Multi-Exponential (FOME) model incorporates delayed add-on terms to comprise these phenomena, increasing parameter quantity, requiring a delayed recruitment of type II fibers to explain the “slow component,” and not offering a unified structure for different individuals and intensity domains. We hypothesized that a model composed of two Second-Order Simultaneous Components (SOSC) would present a better overall fitting performance than the FOME. Fourteen well-trained male cyclists performed repeated step on-transitions to moderate, heavy, and severe cycling intensities, whose responses were fitted with FOME and SOSC models. The SOSC presented significantly smaller (p < 0.05) root mean squared errors for moderate, supra-moderate, and all intensities combined. Along with conceptual analyses, these findings suggest the SOSC as a comprehensive alternative to the FOME model, explaining all oxygen uptake step responses with as many parameters and without delayed add-on components.