Heavy-intensity priming exercise extends the V̇o2max plateau and increases peak-power output during ramp-incremental exercise

This study investigated whether a heavy-intensity priming exercise precisely prescribed within the heavy-intensity domain would lead to a greater peak-power output (POpeak) and a longer maximal oxygen uptake ((V)over dotO(2max)) plateau. Twelve recreationally active adults participated in this study. Two visits were required: 1) a step-ramp-step test [ramp-incremental (RI) control], and 2) an RI test preceded by a priming exercise within the heavy-intensity domain (RI primed). A piecewise equation was used to quantify the (V)over dotO(2) plateau duration ((V)over dotO(2plateau-time)). The mean response time (MRT) was computed during the RI control condition. The delta (Delta) (V)over dotO(2) slope (S; mL.min(-1).W-1) and (V)over dotO(2)-Y intercept (Y; mL.min(-1)) within the moderate-intensity domain between conditions (RI primed minus RI control) were also assessed using a novel graphical analysis. (V)over dotO(2plateau-time) (P = 0.001; d = 1.27) and POpeak (P = 0.003; d = 1.08) were all greater in the RI primed. MRT (P < 0.001; d = 2.45) was shorter in the RI primed compared with the RI control. A larger Delta(V)over dotO(2plateau-time) was correlated with a larger Delta MRT between conditions (r = -0.79; P = 0.002). This study demonstrated that heavy-intensity priming exercise lengthened the (V)over dotO(2plateau-time) and increased POpeak. The overall faster RI-(V)over dotO(2) responses seem to be responsible for the longer (V)over dotO(2plateau-time). Specifically, a shorter MRT, but not changes in RI-(V)over dotO(2)-slopes, was associated with a longer (V)over dotO(2plateau-time) following priming exercise.