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Longitudinal changes in haemoglobin mass and VO(2max) in adolescents.
Annette Eastwood1, Pitre C Bourdon, Robert T Withers
1Sport Science Unit, South Australian Sports Institute, Brooklyn Park, P.O. Box 219, Adelaide, SA, 5032, Australia. eastwood.annette@saugov.sa.gov.au
European Journal of Applied Physiology
|December 17, 2008
Summary
Adolescent aerobic capacity, or maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), is strongly linked to haemoglobin mass (Hb mass). Training improved VO2max but did not increase Hb mass, suggesting genetics play a key role.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Pediatric Sports Science
Background:
- Haemoglobin mass (Hb mass) is a critical determinant of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max).
- Understanding the interplay between Hb mass and VO2max in adolescents is crucial for optimizing training and performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the longitudinal relationship between changes in haemoglobin mass and maximal oxygen consumption in adolescent athletes and controls.
- To determine if endurance training influences haemoglobin mass in young individuals.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study involving 23 adolescents (11-15 years) over 12 months.
- Participants were divided into a training group (cyclists) and a sedentary control group.
- Measurements of haemoglobin mass and VO2max were taken every 3 months.
Main Results:
- A significant baseline correlation was observed between relative VO2max and relative Hb mass (r = 0.82, P < 0.0001).
- Cyclists showed significant improvements in relative VO2max, while controls did not.
- No significant changes in relative Hb mass were observed in either group over the 12-month period.
- Percent changes in relative VO2max did not significantly correlate with percent changes in relative Hb mass in either group.
Conclusions:
- Endurance training does not appear to increase relative Hb mass in adolescents.
- The strong correlation suggests a significant hereditary component for both Hb mass and VO2max in this age group.
- Hb mass may serve as a useful indicator for identifying adolescents with inherently high VO2max potential.
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