What to Expect on the Day of Testing

During this test, you will be fitted with a facemask that will measure the exchange of gases as you exhale. You’ll be asked to choose either a stationary bike or a treadmill. We recommend triathletes complete this test twice – once for biking and once for running – on two separate days. The tester will describe the testing protocol based on your equipment choice. Within half an hour of completing the test, you’ll receive a results packet which details the science behind VO2 max testing and discusses your personal results as well as providing information on target heart rate training zones.

During this test, you’ll be asked to exercise on either a stationary bike or a treadmill. We recommend triathletes complete this test twice – once for biking and once for running – on two separate days. The intensity of the test will gradually increase. At each increasingly difficult stage, at maximal exercise and during recovery, the expert tester will take a small pin-prick of blood from your finger (a “finger stick”). This will then be analyzed for lactic acid content. After the test is completed, you’ll receive a results packet detailing how lactic acid accumulates in the blood and discussing your overall aerobic efficiency. You’ll also receive recommendations for improving your lactic acid threshold and the optimal training heart rate zones based on your test results.

This comprehensive sports performance training package combines both VO2 max and lactic acid testing. You will first be fitted with a mouthpiece that will measure the exchange of gases as your exhale. As with the other all performance tests, you’ll be asked to exercise on either a stationary bike or a treadmill. We recommend triathletes complete this test twice – once for biking and once for running – on two separate days. The incline/resistance will gradually increase, while your cadence (speed) stays the same. At each increasingly difficult stage, the expert tester will take a small pin-prick of blood from your finger (a “finger stick”). This will then be analyzed for lactic acid content.

Afterwards, you’ll receive a results packet that explains the science behind the test and how to integrate the results into your training program. The results packet will also provide information on understanding and improving lactic acid threshold, training to achieve peak performance and identifying the ideal heart rate ranges for various training sessions based on your individual test results.

This test will take about 15 minutes. You should come fasting for 12 hours, prior to eating or activity. An expert tester will fit you with a mask that will help determine the baseline caloric expenditure. You will then lie still in a dim room until the expert tester indicates the test has finished. Results are available immediately. This test is a great foundation for nutritional consultations.

This test will take about 15 minutes and determines your lean and fat mass. You will be asked to remove all metal, plastic and elastic (including zippers, underwire bras, button-down shirts, etc). Gowns will be available, if necessary. You will be asked to lie still on a soft platform for about 10-15 minutes while the DXA machine scans you from head to toe. This is a painless procedure accomplished through X-ray technology. A certified X-ray technician will run and analyze the test. Results are ready in about 5 minutes. This information in extremely useful for the Lifewellness registered dietician in setting nutritional goals and assessing current status.