RESULTS OF A FIVE-YEARS FOLLOW-UP OF THE PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE OF YOUNG MALE SKIERS

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess physical performance over a five-years period in young male cross-country skiers living in the Russian North. Methods. Anthropometric data and parameters of blood circulation, respiration and energy expenditure were studied in 20 skiers aged 15-20 years in the Komi Republic. A bicycle ergometer with Oxycon Pro system (Germany) was the main assessment instrument. Tests were performed twice - at the beginning and in the end of a five-years period. Results. A statistically significant increase in body weight and body mass index, a decrease in heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, double product (DP) and the vegetative Kerdo index at rest were observed indicating an increase in physical fitness. At a load of 200 W, a decrease in heart rate, DP, oxygen consumption and energy expenditure and an increase in efficiency were found suggesting economization of blood circulation and energy reactions during standard operation. However, at maximum load an increase in blood pressure from (185.0 ± 15.2) to (195.0 ± 11.6) mm Hg p = 0.038; a decrease in the maximum oxygen consumption from (67.4 ± 6.20) to (61.4 ± 7.21) ml / min x kg, p = 0.012; decreased oxygen consumption on the brink of anaerobic metabolism from (4,036 ± 594) to (3,623 ± 593) ml / min, P = 0.040; and heart rate on the brink of anaerobic metabolism from (171.0 ± 11.6) to (157.0 ± 16.5) bpm, p = 0.005 was revealed suggesting a decrease in the maximum functional capabilities of the body. Physiological costs of a unit of work for various indicators of blood circulation, respiration, and energy expenditure have not changed over a five-years period (p values varied from 0.082 to 0.935). Conclusions. The observed decrease in the level of physical performance by aerobic and anaerobic thresholds may suggest not only the beginning of age-related changes in the body of athletes in the North, but may also reflect possible negative impact of living conditions in the North.