Oxygen Uptake Kinetics During Submaximal Exercise in Adults With Down Syndrome

This study aims to compare the rate at which oxygen uptake adapts to submaximal, moderate intensity exercise (oxygen uptake kinetics) between adults with and without Down syndrome, to determine the contribution of oxygen uptake kinetics to exercise intolerance of adults with Down syndrome. Additionally, the study will investigate the role of oxygen delivery (by the cardiovascular circuit) and oxygen utilization (in the mitochondria) on the oxygen uptake kinetics of adults with Down syndrome to identify specific areas which adults with Down syndrome could benefit from targeting during exercise training. Overall, this study aims to contribute to the knowledge on the exercise capacity of adults with Down syndrome, in order to improve the way adults with Down syndrome participate in and benefit from exercise. Participants will perform a maximal exercise test on a treadmill, and walk on a treadmill at a submaximal, moderate intensity speed and incline, during which oxygen uptake at the lungs, cardiac output, and oxygen utilization in the muscle will be measured.