What should be incorporated into deep-water programs to help with lactic acid removal?

Incorporating active recovery periods into deep-water programs is essential for effectively aiding lactic acid removal from the muscles. Active recovery involves engaging in low-intensity exercises or movements during recovery periods. This gentle activity can help facilitate blood circulation, which promotes the clearance of metabolic byproducts, including lactic acid, from the muscles. Increased blood flow enhances the delivery of oxygen and nutrients needed for the recovery process, ultimately leading to improved performance and reduced muscle fatigue.

While other options like prolonged rest, high-intensity intervals, and cooling down periods may have their benefits in different contexts, they do not specifically target the removal of lactic acid as effectively as active recovery. Prolonged rest, for instance, can lead to reduced blood circulation, which might hinder the removal process. High-intensity intervals can exacerbate lactic acid build-up rather than help in its removal. Cooling down periods are beneficial for gradually returning the body to a resting state, but without the continuous, light activity that characterizes active recovery, they do not adequately address the immediate need for lactic acid clearance. Thus, active recovery stands out as the most effective strategy for managing lactic acid accumulation in deep-water training.