K+ and Lac- distribution in humans during and after high-intensity exercise: role in muscle fatigue attenuation?

This review describes processes for the distribution of K+ ([K+]) and lactate concentrations ([Lac-]) that are released from contracting muscle at high rates during high-intensity exercise. This results in increased interstitial and venous [K+] and [Lac-] in contracting muscle. Large and rapid increases in plasma [K+] and [Lac-] result in the transport of these ions into red blood cells (RBCs). These ions are distributed to noncontracting …