Exercise Physiology: The Response of Metabolic Rate to Physical Activity

 

Thomas F. Colton and Eric Larsen

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2002, Volume 23

Abstract

In this lab, students measure their heart rate, oxygen consumption, and carbon dioxide production in various physical activities on a treadmill or cycle ergometer. After learning the techniques in the first lab period, each group of 3-4 students designs an independent investigation that is performed during the second lab period. To measure metabolic rate, students collect expired air in a Douglas bag, then measure the volume, the temperature, and the concentration of oxygen and carbon dioxide. With this technique, students can investigate the energetic cost of walking and running, effects of going uphill and downhill, efficiency of muscles, effect on muscle efficiency of varying force and velocity of shortening, relative amounts of fats and carbohydrates metabolized at different activity levels, and many other topics.

Keywords:  oxygen use, metabolic rate, exercise

University of Chicago (2001)