Hematological responses to training in elite swimmers

Hemoglobin (HB) and hematocrit (Hct) measurements were obtained in two studies of elite swimmers. A case-study analysis indicated that Hb values decrease during hard training and increase again during the reduced workload of tapering. Sub-normal Hb values occurred during hard training in most athletes. Hematological responses were idiosyncratic and required individual monitoring and assessment during training. Hb was found to be a more sensitive measure of training than Hct. Data of this investigation suggested that the coaching of a composite national team in a training of a familiar club membership.