Abstract
Optimization of training and minimization of injuries are topical for the physical performance of military personnel. Physical and psycho-emotional load, fatigue, sleep deprivation, and dietary limits can lead to the development of oxidative stress (OS) and injuries in specific military training. This study investigated markers of OS and muscle damage in military cadets after a 10-day-long intensive training course and a one-month-long recovery. The sample included 42 cadets (2 females and 40 males) aged from 22 till 34. Myoglobin, catalase activity (CAT), superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), and total antioxidants capacity (TAC) in plasma were measured. OS was assessed by the glutathione index. The results revealed an increasing level of myoglobin, increasing glutathione index, and no changes in CAT, SOD, and TAC during the intensive training course. After the one-month-long recovery, myoglobin was back to normal, the activity of CAT and TAC was higher than before and after the training course, while SOD did not change after the recovery. The glutathione index decreased after the one-month-long recovery, but it was not reached the initial level before the intensive training. In sum, the observed grade of OS positively affected the capacity of the antioxidative system with some sign of a need for a longer rest.
Highlights
Optimization of training adaptations and minimization of training-related injuries and overload are aiming at enhancing the physical performance of military personnel
The level of catalase activity (CAT) followed a different trend (Figure 2). It remained relatively unchanging after the training course and visibly increased after the recovery
A higher level of oxidative stress (OS) index after the recovery than before the intensive training course indicated a possible need for a longer period of rest
Summary
Optimization of training adaptations and minimization of training-related injuries and overload are aiming at enhancing the physical performance of military personnel. Based on a review of Kyröläinen et al [1], training programs must be well planned, and the total training load must increase progressively, including sufficient recovery periods. Training load, combined with external stress factors, can lead to overreaching and overtraining associated with increasing musculoskeletal injury rates [2]. Specific military surrounding contains the risk factors such as high physical load, psycho-emotional stress, fatigue, sleep deprivation, and dietary limits [6]. Detection of oxidative stress markers in blood provides significant information for the assessment of physical load intensity and successful recovery [7]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
