Oxygen debt
[ok-si-jen det]
/ˈɑksɪdʒən dɛt/
Noun
The amount of extra oxygen required by the body to recover from strenuous exercise and restore it to its pre-exercise state.
Oxygen debt refers to the extra oxygen the body requires to recover after intense exercise. It occurs when the body's demand for oxygen exceeds supply during exertion, leading to anaerobic metabolism. Post-exercise, the body consumes more oxygen to restore energy reserves, clear lactic acid, and return to resting state. This process is known as excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). For runners, understanding oxygen debt is crucial for optimizing recovery and improving performance. Real-world examples include sprinting or high-intensity interval training, where oxygen debt is significant, necessitating effective recovery strategies to enhance endurance and speed.