Delayed metabolic changes after strenuous exertion in trained young men.

Area of Science:

• Exercise physiology
• Sports medicine
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Physical training impacts physiological markers.
• Understanding biochemical responses to extreme exertion is crucial for athletes and military personnel.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of a 70 km march on serum magnesium (S-Mg), serum calcium (S-Ca), liver enzymes (S-AST, S-ALT), creatine kinase (S-CK), and metabolic parameters in trained young men.
• To assess the recovery patterns of these biochemical markers over 18 days post-exertion.

Main Methods:

• Twenty healthy young male volunteers underwent 6 months of graded outdoor physical training.
• Serum samples were collected before, and at 1, 24, and 72 hours, and 18 days after a 70 km march.
• Analysis included S-Mg, S-Ca, S-AST, S-ALT, S-CK, serum cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar, and VO2 max.

Main Results:

• Maximal aerobic power and body weight remained unchanged.
• Immediately post-march, serum calcium and cholesterol showed transient increases.
• Significant decreases in S-Mg were observed at 72 hours and persisted at 18 days.
• At 18 days, significant increases in S-ALT, S-CK, blood sugar, triglycerides, and cholesterol were noted.

Conclusions:

• A 70 km march induces significant alterations in serum magnesium, calcium, and metabolic profiles in endurance-trained young men.
• These biochemical changes, particularly the persistent hypomagnesemia and metabolic disturbances, suggest a prolonged physiological stress response.
• Further research is warranted to understand the long-term implications and optimal recovery strategies.