Abstract
Given the previous evidence that breath-hold diving is a cause of physiological stress, this study aimed to determine whether a combination static and dynamic apnea would affect total oxidant status, nitric oxide, heat shock proteins and cardiovascular parameters in elite freedivers. Thirteen finalists of the World and European championships in swimming pool breath-hold diving participated in the study. Whole-body plethysmography and electrocardiography was performed to determine the cardiorespiratory variables at baseline and during the simulation static apnea. An assessment of the heart rate, blood oxygen saturation and biochemical variables was performed before and in response to a combination of a static followed by a dynamic apnea. Static and dynamic breath-holding had a significant effect on oxidative stress, as evidenced by an increase in the total oxidant status/capacity (p < 0.001). The post apnea concentrations of heat shock proteins 27 (HSP27) were significantly elevated (p < 0.03, but total antioxidant status (TAS), HSP90, HSP70, and nitric oxide (NO) changes were not significant. levels under the influence of the static and dynamic breath-hold protocol. A significant positive correlation between HSPs and TAS (r = 0.63; p < 0.05) as well as NO levels was associated with beneficial cardiovascular adaptation. An increase in serum HSP27 levels mediated in nitric oxide levels could explain its important role in improving cardiovascular functions in elite freedivers. Further studies are necessary to explain the exact mechanisms of breath holds training of cardiovascular adaptation responsible for maintaining adequate oxygen supply in elite divers.
Highlights
Individual and team world freediving championships include disciplines, such as Static Apnea (STA) in which the diver holding his breath for as long as possible with his nose and mouth immersed, or Dynamic Apnea in which the diver travels underwater attempting to cover the greatest possible distance with or without fins (Elia et al, 2021)
This study aimed to assess the relationship between the total antioxidant status (TAS), the nitric oxide (NO) levels, the concentration of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and cardiovascular adaptation in response to a combination of a static followed by a dynamic apnea in elite freedivers
There were no significant differences between the plethysmography variables (TLC, RV, IC, and DLCO) and ECG variables of the studied group compared to references norms for this age group
Summary
Individual and team world freediving championships include disciplines, such as Static Apnea (STA) in which the diver holding his breath for as long as possible with his nose and mouth immersed, or Dynamic Apnea in which the diver travels underwater attempting to cover the greatest possible distance with or without fins (Elia et al, 2021). The diving reflex is a protective, multifaceted physiologic response whose aim is to preserve oxygen stores during times of water immersion. It is characterized by bradycardia, apnea, and increased peripheral vascular resistance which redistribute blood to the brain and hart while limiting oxygen consumption by non-essential muscle groups (Eichhorn et al, 2017; Vega, 2017). Muscle contraction and higher energy demand during dynamic apnea decrease apnea tolerance
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