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Assessments

Aerobic Power (VO2 max): The Aerobic Power VO2 max test is the ideal test to determine cardio-respiratory fitness. VO2 max is the maximum amount of oxygen in milliliters, one can use in one minute per kilogram of body weight. VO2 max is an important component of successful endurance performance and necessary for quick recovery from repeated short duration-high intensity exercise. Aerobic power can be measured while running, cycling, rowing or swimming. True maximal heart rate is determined, which is invaluable for calculating proper training intensities.

Submaximal Aerobic Economy: The submaximal aerobic economy test is a critical test to document changes in any training program or after a period of inactivity. The test measures oxygen consumption at race and/or training paces and is a direct measure of physiological changes in oxygen delivery, uptake and utilization. Economy can be measured while running, cycling, rowing or swimming. Heart rate at the selected paces is also determined which is vital for setting new training programs.
Lactate / Ventilatory Threshold: A lactate and/or ventilatory threshold test is used to determine the workload, intensity, heart rate and VO2 that corresponds to the point where an individual switches from predominantly relying on the aerobic system to the anaerobic system for energy. Identifying the LT or VT is important for athletes as training workloads and intensities should be determined from the lactate or ventilatory threshold. A lactate and/or ventilatory threshold test can be measured while running, cycling, rowing or swimming.

Sport Specific Power (SSP): The SSP is a modification of the Wingate Anaerobic Test, which is the ideal test to determine peak power output. The SSP test is specifically designed and tailored for each different sport (volleyball, soccer, basketball, hockey, football, cycling). Anaerobic power is safely measured while cycling or performing seated leg extensions.
Body Composition Hydrostatic (Under Water): Hydrostatic weighing is the gold standard of body composition analysis. This method measures the amount and percent of lean (muscle) tissue and fat tissue in the body. Various types of athletic performance and indicators of health status can be improved by altering body composition.

In addition, the HPL has the ability to measure total body water as well as intracellular (inside the cell) fluid. These measures provide an individual accurate measures of the amount of water/fluid they are retaining. Various exercise and nutrition programs can be created to safely remove excess fluid from the body which is known to decrease blood pressure, a marker of cardiovascular health.
Muscular Strength / Power: This measurement of upper and lower body strength and power helps identify specific muscle groups that need strength or power improvement. Through the Biodex Evaluation, opposing muscle groups of the same joint are compared and existing asymmetries, which can potentially lead to injury, can be identified.

Additionally, the HPL recently received a Velocity Cage for assessing and training muscular power. The Velocity Cage allows an athlete to perform any power training exercise (squat jumps, bench throws, power cleans, snatches, high pulls, etc) and receive real time power outputs. Power training has become the newest form of training elite athletes to maximize muscular strength in functional sport specific movements.

Nutritional Analysis: The daily intake of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals and water has a dramatic affect on energy levels, tissue (muscle) building and repair, and body composition. Identification of proper food selection helps training and competition, as well as achieving your desired body weight and body fat content.

Sport Specific / Individualized Training Prescription: Evaluation of your training program by an exercise scientist is an invaluable asset for improving your exercise regimen. The focus is aimed at developing strengths and correcting weaknesses in your aerobic and/or strength and power training program.