Abstract
Summary
Groups of male subjects in varying states of general physical condition were exercised on a bicycle ergometer at three work loads. Pre- and postexercise concentrations of serum pyruvate were estimated by a simple, rapid automated technique which utilizes LDH in the serum specimens. Postexercise concentrations of pyruvate increased with increasing work load. After a test exercise of 720 kpm/min for 30 min, serum pyruvate concentrations correlated significantly with several indices of general physical condition: maximal oxygen uptake, time to run 3 miles, and time to run 1000 m. The techniques described may provide the basis for a simple biochemical test of cardiovascular fitness.
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