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Hematological responses to training in elite swimmers
Canadian Journal of Applied Sport Sciences. Journal Canadien Des Sciences Appliquees Au Sport
|September 1, 1980
Summary
Elite swimmers experienced decreased hemoglobin (Hb) during intense training, highlighting the need for individual hematological monitoring. Hemoglobin proved more sensitive than hematocrit for tracking training load in athletes.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
- Hematology
Background:
- Elite athletes undergo rigorous training regimens.
- Monitoring physiological markers is crucial for optimizing performance and preventing overtraining.
- Hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) are key indicators of oxygen-carrying capacity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of training load on hemoglobin and hematocrit levels in elite swimmers.
- To determine the sensitivity of Hb and Hct as indicators of training stress.
- To assess the individual variability in hematological responses to training.
Main Methods:
- Two studies involving elite swimmers were conducted.
- Hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) levels were measured.
- Case-study analysis was employed to examine trends during training and tapering phases.
Main Results:
- Hemoglobin levels decreased during periods of hard training.
- Hb values increased during the reduced workload of tapering.
- Sub-normal Hb levels were observed in most athletes during intense training.
- Hematological responses demonstrated significant individual variability.
- Hemoglobin was identified as a more sensitive indicator of training load than hematocrit.
Conclusions:
- Individual monitoring of hematological parameters, particularly hemoglobin, is essential for elite swimmers.
- Training-induced changes in Hb and Hct reflect the physiological stress of exercise.
- Understanding idiosyncratic responses can inform personalized training periodization and management.