Exercise Physiology Lab
Welcome to Stellenbosch University

Sport Physiology Laboratory

​​​Our ser​vices​​


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Cyclists

VO2max test
Aim: To determine maximal aerobic capacity, lactate threshold, peak power output, heart rate max and heart rate recovery. This test includes gas analysis, but blood sampling (via finger prick) for lactate analysis is optional. The report is explained after the test and heart rates zones are calculated for training purposes.

Lactate test (LT test)
Aim: To determine peak power output, aerobic capacity, lactate threshold, heart rate max and heart rate recovery. This test includes blood sampling (via finger prick).

Wingate anaerobic test
Aim: To determine anaerobic (sprint) capacity and peak power output. This is an excellent test to measure the strength and fatigue-resistance of your leg muscles. This test is done without gas analysis, and lactate analysis is optional.

Body composition analysis (included in VO2 max and LT tests)
Aim: To determine the quantity, distribution and percentage of body fat, hydration status and required energy intake. This analysis also includes accurate measurements of standing height and body mass.

Cycling efficiency
The SpinScan software of the Velotron ergometer is used to assess leg muscle efficiency and the distribution of power between the legs. If there is an imbalance between the right and left leg, it could indicate incorrect bike set-up, differences in muscle strength of the legs or incorrect pedalling technique. All these factors may lead to injuries in the long term.

Submaximal economy/efficiency test
Aim: Determine the oxygen cost at different submaximal workloads (i.e. the economy of exercise). This is an excellent fitness test and is used to monitor your progress and efficacy of your training program. This test includes gas analysis, but blood sampling (via finger prick) for lactate analysis is optional.

Time trial
Aim: To determine endurance performance. This is a cycle-specific test used to test your endurance for track cycling (4 km) or road cycling (20 km, 30 km or 40 km) and these time trials are very good predictors of your performance in the field. This test is done without gas analysis, and lactate analysis is optional.

Long- and Middle-Distance Run​ners

VO2max test
Aim: To determine maximal aerobic capacity, lactate threshold, peak power output, heart rate max and heart rate recovery. This test includes gas analysis, but blood sampling (via finger prick) for lactate analysis is optional. The report is explained after the test and heart rates zones are calculated for training purposes.

Body composition analysis (included in VO2max test)
Aim: To determine the quantity, distribution and percentage of body fat. This analysis also includes accurate measurements of standing height and body mass.

Submaximal economy/efficiency test
Aim: Determine the oxygen cost at different submaximal workloads (i.e. the economy of running). This is an excellent fitness test and is used to monitor your progress and efficacy of your training program. This test includes gas analysis, but blood sampling (via finger prick) for lactate analysis is optional.​


Tri-athletes

VO2max test​
Aim: To determine maximal aerobic capacity, lactate threshold, peak power output, heart rate max and heart rate recovery. This test includes gas analysis, but blood sampling (via finger prick) for lactate analysis is optional. The report is explained after the test and heart rates zones are calculated for training purposes.

Body composition analysis (included in VO2max test)
Aim: To determine the quantity, distribution and percentage of body fat, hydration status and required energy intake. This analysis also includes accurate measurements of standing height and body mass.

Time trial (10 km or 40 km)
Aim: To determine endurance performance. This is a cycle-specific test and can be performed on your own bike, mounted on the KingCycle trainer or the Velotron. It tests your endurance for track cycling (4 km) or road cycling (20 km or 40 km) and these time trials are very good predictors of your performance in the field. This test is done without gas analysis, and lactate analysis is optional.

Rowers

VO2max test
Aim: To determine maximal aerobic capacity, lactate threshold, peak power output, heart rate max and heart rate recovery. This test includes gas analysis, but blood sampling (via finger prick) for lactate analysis is optional. The report is explained after the test and heart rates zones are calculated for training purposes.

Time trial (2km, 5km)
Aim: To determine endurance performance. This is a canoe-specific test. These time trials are very good predictors of your performance in the field. This test is done without gas analysis but includes heart rate measurements.

Submaximal economy/efficiency test
Aim: Determine the oxygen cost at different submaximal workloads (i.e. the economy of paddling). This is an excellent fitness test and is used to monitor your progress and efficacy of your training program. This test includes gas analysis, heart rate measurements.

Body composition analysis (included in VO2max test)
Aim: To determine the quantity, distribution and percentage of body fat, hydration status and required energy intake. This analysis also includes accurate measurements of standing height and body mass.​

Swim​mers

Vasa ergometer sessions
A single session or a package of 10 sessions can be bought in advance to use the Vasa swim ergometer for quality anaerobic/sprint training. The Vasa swim ergometer can also be used for technique training.

Body composition
Aim: To determine the quantity, distribution and percentage of body fat, lean body mass, water content and required energy intake. This analysis also includes circumferences and accurate height and weight measurement.

Health related tests

Lung function test and exercise induced bronchoconstriction test
Aim: To determine whether any lung conditions exist. This analysis includes measurements of various parameters such as forced vital capacity and peak expiratory flow rate. In case any abnormal results are detected, the client will be referred to a medical doctor.

Glucose/Cholesterol/Hemoglobin/Blood pressure

Body composition
Aim: To determine the quantity, distribution and percentage of body fat, lean body mass, water content. This analysis also includes hip-to-weight ratio, which is a health risk indicator. The report includes energy intake recommendations. Changes can be tracked with multiple measurements. With our Bodymetrics software we are able to scan centre areas to determine the fat distribution.​