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Physiological variables during 10 years of endurance exercise
Medicine and Science in Sports
|January 1, 1976
Summary
Regular endurance exercise can prevent the typical decline in Physical Working Capacity (PWC) max seen in middle-aged men. This consistent training may also offer protection against fatal heart attacks.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Cardiovascular Health
- Aging Research
Background:
- Physical Working Capacity (PWC) max typically declines 9-15% between ages 45-55.
- Vigorous physical activity is suggested to prevent this decline and reduce myocardial infarction risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term effects of endurance exercise on maximal PWC in middle-aged men.
- To determine if regular training can forestall age-related decreases in cardiorespiratory fitness.
Main Methods:
- A 10-year endurance training program (running/swimming >60% VO2 max) was conducted.
- Sixteen men (initial age 32-56) participated, averaging 15 miles/week of running.
- Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) was directly measured using the Douglas Bag/Scholander technique.
Main Results:
- Mean VO2 max remained unchanged over 10 years (approx. 3.3 L/min STPD).
- VO2 max relative to body weight was also stable (43.7 to 44.4 ml/min-kg).
- No significant changes in body weight, resting heart rate, or resting blood pressure were observed.
Conclusions:
- Regular endurance exercise effectively prevents the age-related decline in maximal PWC (VO2 max) in middle-aged men.
- This sustained cardiorespiratory fitness may have implications for reducing the risk of heart attacks.