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Ventilatory response pattern of Nordic skiers during simulated poling
1Department of Health and Physical Education, California State University at Sacramento 95819.
Journal of Sports Sciences
|June 1, 1994
Summary
Cross-country ski poling significantly impacts breathing patterns, relying more on breathing frequency than tidal volume. Ventilatory responses during arm poling differ from leg cycling in master skiers.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Cross-country ski poling involves unique biomechanics that may affect breathing patterns.
- Understanding these patterns is crucial for optimizing athletic performance and training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the ventilatory patterns of competitive cross-country skiers during simulated arm poling and leg cycling.
- To compare physiological and ventilatory responses between arm and leg exercise modes.
Main Methods:
- Nine male master level cross-country skiers performed simulated bilateral synchronous and asynchronous arm poling and upright leg cycling.
- Pulmonary function, physiological, and ventilatory responses were measured using a Biokinetic arm ergometer and Monark bicycle.
Main Results:
- Minute ventilation (VE) was lower during leg cycling compared to arm exercise at similar oxygen consumption levels.
- Breathing frequency (fR) was significantly higher during arm poling (41-42 breaths/min) than leg cycling (27 breaths/min).
- Leg cycling produced a higher tidal volume (VT) (1.8 L) than arm poling (1.6-1.7 L), with synchronous poling showing lower VT and higher fR.
Conclusions:
- Ventilatory responses to cross-country ski poling are distinct from upright cycle exercise.
- Arm poling relies more heavily on increased breathing frequency (fR) to maintain minute ventilation (VE).
- These findings highlight the specific physiological demands of poling in cross-country skiing.