This book discusses the maximal power and capacity of the three major biochemical pathways - aerobic (oxygen consumption), anaerobic lactic (muscle lactate accumulation in absence of oxygen consumption), and anaerobic alactic (phosphocreatine hydrolysis) metabolism - as well as the factors that limit them. It also discusses the metabolic and cardio-pulmonary mechanisms of the dynamic response to exercise. The way and extent to which the power and capacity of the three major energy metabolisms are affected under a number of different conditions, such as training, hypoxia and microgravity, are also described.

This book sheds new light on the history of exercise physiology and how it essentially grew, thanks to the work of a few major Schools. Analysing and interpreting the evolution of the field, the authors focus on the School of Milano, which was founded by Rodolfo Margaria and is one of the most prominent representatives, having played a central role in promoting and advancing this field of physiology.  In turn, the authors trace Margaria’s biography; under his influence, the school introduced new concepts with regard to both the energetics of muscular exercise and to human locomotion. These concepts were further developed by Margaria’s pupils and by subsequent generations. Indeed, the course that was set in Milano greatly influenced the entire history of modern physiology. Readers with a keen interest in the origins of modern concepts and technologies in exercise physiology will find this book a fascinating and informative read.

This book discusses the maximal power and capacity of the three major biochemical pathways ­- aerobic (oxygen consumption), anaerobic lactic (muscle lactate accumulation in absence of oxygen consumption), and anaerobic alactic (phosphocreatine hydrolysis) metabolism - as well as the factors that limit them. It also discusses the metabolic and cardio-pulmonary mechanisms of the dynamic response to exercise. The way and extent to which the power and capacity of the three major energy metabolisms are affected under a number of different conditions, such as training, hypoxia and microgravity, are also described.