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The gas transporting systems: limits and modifications with age and training
1Centre for Activity and Ageing, School of Kinesiology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 3K7.
Summary
Cardiovascular and cellular oxygen uptake determine aerobic performance. Training improves maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and endurance by enhancing peripheral adaptations and cardiac function, especially in aging populations.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Cardiovascular Adaptations
- Cellular Metabolism
Background:
- Aerobic performance is determined by cardiovascular and cellular oxygen uptake.
- Training induces system adaptations in various populations, influencing limitations in oxygen uptake.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine determinants of aerobic performance and training adaptations.
- To describe limitations in oxygen uptake, particularly VO2max and submaximal exercise.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of cardiovascular and cellular oxygen uptake.
- Examination of training adaptations in different age groups and conditions (e.g., myocardial infarction, aging).
Main Results:
- VO2max limitation, common after myocardial infarction and with aging, is modifiable with training.
- Peripheral adaptations and improved diastolic filling can increase stroke volume.
- Submaximal oxygen uptake kinetics are typically under peripheral metabolic control but can be centrally limited.
- The anaerobic threshold (theta(an)) relative to VO2max is lower in children and higher in older adults.
Conclusions:
- Training enhances aerobic performance by improving central and peripheral factors, including VO2max and stroke volume.
- Peripheral adaptations in muscle oxidative metabolism are crucial for submaximal endurance.
- Age-related changes in muscle mass influence cardiac adjustments and endurance capacity.