During all performance tests (Pt1, Pt2, Pt3), VO2 and RER were measured using the ParvoMedics’ True One 2400 Metabolic Measurement System (Sandy, Utah, USA) connected via a hose to a 2-way HansRudolph Valve (Shawnee, Kansas, USA. In addition, blood lactate (BL) was assessed from the finger with a Scout lactate analyzer (Leipzig, Germany) according to procedures described by the manufacturer.