Energy system contribution to Olympic distances in flat water kayaking (500 and 1,000 m) in highly trained subjects.

Olympic flat water kayaking races take place over a distance of 500 and 1,000 m. This study was designed to determine the aerobic and anaerobic contributions to 500- and 1,000-m races during flat water paddling in open water, using the accumulated oxygen deficit (AOD) method. Seven internationally ranked athletes, specialized in 500-m races and familiar with 1,000-m races, participated in this study (age: 21.