Introduction: Understanding sports physiology is crucial for effectively designing and implementing training programs, as it directly influences an athlete's performance outcomes. It is essential to comprehend the impact of a structured training program on physiological processes, particularly respiratory and metabolic changes. These are vital for energy supply during exercise and maintaining the athlete's homeostasis. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to measure metabolic and respiratory parameters using cycle ergometry and incremental load testing up to 85% of maximum heart rate in adult long-distance runners. The results were then compared with the intensity of their regular training program to determine the effects of varying training intensities on physical performance. Methods: Seven healthy adult runners (four women and three men) voluntarily participated in the study. Over the course of their regular uninterrupted training program, five incremental load tests were conducted on a stationary bike. The first test was a maximal load test, followed by four tests up to 85% of maximum heart rate. Each test consisted of a five-minute warm-up, incremental load exercise, and a 15-minute recovery period after exercise. Measured values of metabolic and respiratory responses were recorded and later analyzed. The results were also compared with objective assessments of the training impulse method (TRIMP) based on the Banister model and modified models considering two-day training loads (TRIMP2), rest (TRIMPr), and subjective ratings using the Borg scale after the training session (sRPEt). Results: All measured values varied throughout the 14-day study period. Statistically significant changes were observed in ΔMVD with VE/VCO₂ max (p = 0.026); ΔMVDm with RQ rest (p = 0.013), RQ max (p = 0.013), and RQ recovery (p = 0.046); ΔMVD2 with RQ rest (p = 0.033), RQ max (p = 0.012), RQ recovery (p = 0.035), VE/VCO₂ rest (p = 0.031), and Vo₂/kg max (p = 0.002); ΔRPE with VE/VCO₂ rest (p = 0.041) and VE/VCO₂ max (p = 0.004). Discussion and conclusion: The results of the study indicate statistically significant changes in RQ, VO₂/kg max, and VE/VCO₂ concerning the intensity of the regular training program. Higher measured values of VO₂/kg max and VE/VCO₂ suggest an improvement in aerobic capacity, while RQ (rest, max, recovery) can report on the negative impact of the athlete's over-intensive training program.
|
