Effectiveness of Active and Passive Recovery Methods on Reducing Post-High-Intensity Exercise Lactate Levels

Abstract

Background: Lactate accumulation following high-intensity exercise is one of the primary physiological factors contributing to fatigue and impaired performance in athletes. The management of post-exercise recovery is critical in sport science, yet debates remain regarding the comparative efficacy of active versus passive recovery modalities in accelerating lactate clearance. Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of active recovery (low-intensity cycling at 50–60% maximum heart rate) and passive recovery (complete rest in a seated position) on blood lactate reduction following high-intensity exercise. Methods: A quasi-experimental study with a crossover design was conducted involving 30 male students from the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Universitas Negeri Makassar, aged 18–22 years. Participants performed a standardized high-intensity protocol on a cycle ergometer using the Wingate protocol, followed by either 20 minutes of active or passive recovery. Blood lactate was measured at baseline, immediately post-exercise, 10 minutes post-recovery, and 20 minutes post-recovery using the Accutrend Plus lactate analyzer. Results: Active recovery demonstrated significantly greater lactate reduction compared to passive recovery at both 10 minutes (3.82 ± 0.67 vs. 5.91 ± 0.73 mmol/L, p < 0.001) and 20 minutes (2.14 ± 0.45 vs. 4.37 ± 0.58 mmol/L, p < 0.001) post-recovery. Conclusion: Active recovery is significantly more effective than passive recovery in reducing blood lactate concentrations following high-intensity exercise. These findings have important implications for athletic training programs and post-exercise recovery protocols