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Changes in maximum oxygen uptake during prolonged training, overtraining, and detraining in horses
C M Tyler1, L C Golland, D L Evans
1Department of Animal Health, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Journal of Applied Physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985)
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Overtraining in horses did not decrease maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) despite reduced performance. Declines in VO2max were gradual during detraining, indicating resilience in equine athletes.
Area of Science:
- Equine Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
- Animal Training
Background:
- Understanding the physiological effects of overtraining is crucial for optimizing athletic performance and preventing injury in horses.
- Previous research suggests overtraining can lead to performance decrements, but its impact on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of a structured training program, including overload training and detraining, on the physiological responses and performance of standardbred horses.
- To determine if overtraining, as indicated by reduced performance, is associated with a decrease in maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max).
Main Methods:
- Thirteen standardbred horses underwent a 4-phase training regimen: endurance, high-intensity, overload, and detraining.
- The overload training group (OLT) exercised at higher intensities, frequencies, and durations compared to the control group (C).
- Overtraining was identified by a significant decrease in treadmill run time during a standardized exercise test.
Main Results:
- Overtraining was achieved after 31 weeks, characterized by decreased treadmill run time and body weight in the OLT group.
- Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) increased significantly during training, peaking at 29% above pretraining values.
- No significant reduction in VO2max was observed during overtraining; decreases only occurred slowly during the 12-week detraining period, remaining 15% above pretraining levels.
Conclusions:
- Overtraining in horses, defined by performance decline, is not necessarily associated with a decrease in maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max).
- Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) demonstrates resilience, with decreases occurring gradually during detraining rather than acutely with overtraining.
- These findings suggest that VO2max may not be the primary indicator of overtraining in equine athletes and that performance metrics are more sensitive.