Mid Sweden University

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of three water immersion interventions performed after active recovery compared to active recovery only on the resolution of inflammation and markers of muscle damage post-exercise. Methods: Nine physically active men (n = 9; age 20‒35 years) performed an intensive loading protocol, including maximal jumps and sprinting on four occasions. After each trial, one of three recovery interventions (10 min duration) was used in a random order: cold-water immersion (CWI, 10 °C), thermoneutral water immersion (TWI, 24 °C), contrast water therapy (CWT, alternately 10 °C and 38 °C). All of these methods were performed after an active recovery (10 min bicycle ergometer), and were compared to active recovery only (ACT). 5 min, 1, 24, 48, and 96 h after exercise bouts, immune response and recovery were assessed through leukocyte subsets, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, myoglobin and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein concentrations. Results: Significant changes in all blood markers occurred at post-loading (p < 0.05), but there were no significant differences observed in the recovery between methods. However, retrospective analysis revealed significant trial-order effects for myoglobin and neutrophils (p < 0.01). Only lymphocytes displayed satisfactory reliability in the exercise response, with intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.5. Conclusions: The recovery methods did not affect the resolution of inflammatory and immune responses after high-intensity sprinting and jumping exercise. It is notable that the biomarker responses were variable within individuals. Thus, the lack of differences between recovery methods may have been influenced by the reliability of exercise-induced biomarker responses. 

Purpose To compare the anaerobic work capacity (AnWC, i.e., attributable anaerobic mechanical work) assessed using four different approaches/models applied to time-trial (TT) cycle-ergometry exercise. Methods Fifteen male cyclists completed a 7 x 4-min submaximal protocol and a 3-min all-out TT (TTAO). Linear relationships between power output (PO) and submaximal metabolic rate were constructed to estimate TT-specific gross efficiency (GE) and AnWC, using either a measured resting metabolic rate as a Y-intercept (7 + Y-LIN) or no measured Y-intercept (7-Y-LIN). In addition, GE of the last submaximal bout (GE(LAST)) was used to estimate AnWC, and critical power (CP) from TTAO (CP3'AO) was used to estimate mechanical work above CP (W', i.e., "AnWC"). Results Average PO during TTAO was 5.43 +/- 0.30 and CP was 4.48 +/- 0.23 W.kg(-1). The TT-associated GE values were similar to 22.0% for both 7 + Y-LIN and 7-Y-LIN and similar to 21.1% for GE(LAST) (both P < 0.001). The AnWC were 269 +/- 60, 272 +/- 55, 299 +/- 61, and 196 +/- 52 J.kg(-1) for the 7 + Y-LIN, 7 Y-LIN, GE(LAST), and CP3'AO models, respectively (7 + Y-LIN and 7-Y-LIN versus GE(LAST), both P <0.001; 7+ Y-LIN, 7 Y-LIN, and GE(LAST) versus CP3'AO, all P < 0.01). For the three pair-wise comparisons between 7+ Y-LIN, 7-Y-LIN, and GE(LAST), typical errors in AnWC values ranged from 7 to 11 J.kg(-1), whereas 7+ Y-LIN, 7-Y-LIN, and GE(LAST) versus CP3'AO revealed typical errors of 55-59 J.kg(-1). Conclusion These findings demonstrate a substantial disagreement in AnWC between CP3'AO and the other models. The 7 + Y-LIN and 7-Y-LIN generated 10% lower AnWC values than the GE(LAST) model, whereas 7 + Y-LIN and 7-Y-LIN generated similar values of AnWC.

Purpose: This study aimed to compare physiological factors and cycle characteristics during cross-country (XC) roller-skiing at matched inclines and speeds using the double-poling (DP) and diagonal-stride (DS) sub-techniques in junior female and male XC skiers. Methods: Twenty-three well-trained junior XC skiers (11 women, 12 men; age 18.2 ± 1.2 yr.) completed two treadmill roller-skiing tests in a randomized order using either DP or DS. The exercise protocols were identical and included a 5 min warm-up, 4 × 5 min submaximal stages, and an incremental test to exhaustion, all performed at a 5° incline. Results: No significant three-way interactions were observed between sex, submaximal exercise intensity, and sub-technique. For the pooled sample, higher values were observed for DP versus DS during submaximal exercise for the mean oxygen uptake kinetics response time (33%), energy cost (18%), heart rate (HR) (9%), blood lactate concentration (5.1 versus 2.1 mmol·L−1), rating of perceived exertion (12%), and cycle rate (25%), while cycle length was lower (19%) (all P &lt; 0.001). During the time-to-exhaustion (TTE) test, peak oxygen uptake (V˙ O2peak), peak HR, and peak oxygen pulse were 8%, 2%, and 6% lower, respectively, for DP than DS, with a 29% shorter TTE during DP (pooled data, all P &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: In well-trained junior XC skiers, DP was found to exert a greater physiological load than DS during uphill XC roller-skiing at submaximal intensities. During the TTE test, both female and male athletes were able to ski for longer and reached markedly higher V˙ O2peak values when using DS compared to DP. 

Purpose: To compare physiological responses between a self-paced 4-min double-poling (DP) time-trial (TTDP) versus a 4-min diagonal-stride (DS) time-trial (TTDS). The relative importance of peak oxygen uptake (V ˙ O2peak), anaerobic capacity, and gross efficiency (GE) for projection of 4-min TTDP and TTDS roller-skiing performances were also examined. Methods: Sixteen highly trained male cross-country skiers performed, in each sub-technique on separate occasions, an 8 × 4-min incremental submaximal protocol, to assess individual metabolic rate (MR) versus power output (PO) relationships, followed by a 10-min passive break and then the TTDP or TTDS, with a randomized order between sub-techniques. Results: In comparison to TTDS, the TTDP resulted in 10 ± 7% lower total MR, 5 ± 4% lower aerobic MR, 30 ± 37% lower anaerobic MR, and 4.7 ± 1.2 percentage points lower GE, which resulted in a 32 ± 4% lower PO (all P &lt; 0.01). The V ˙ O2peak and anaerobic capacity were 4 ± 4% and 30 ± 37% lower, respectively, in DP than DS (both P &lt; 0.01). The PO for the two time-trial (TT) performances were not significantly correlated (R 2 = 0.044). Similar parabolic pacing strategies were used during both TTs. Multivariate data analysis projected TT performance using V ˙ O2peak, anaerobic capacity, and GE (TTDP, R 2 = 0.974; TTDS, R 2 = 0.848). The variable influence on projection values for V ˙ O2peak, anaerobic capacity, and GE were for TTDP, 1.12 ± 0.60, 1.01 ± 0.72, and 0.83 ± 0.38, respectively, and TTDS, 1.22 ± 0.35, 0.93 ± 0.44, and 0.75 ± 0.19, respectively. Conclusions: The results show that a cross-country skier’s “metabolic profile” and performance capability are highly sub-technique specific and that 4-min TT performance is differentiated by physiological factors, such as V ˙ O2peak, anaerobic capacity, and GE. 

The purpose was to examine skiing velocities, gear choice (G2-7) and cycle rates during a skating sprint time trial (STT) and their relationships to performance, as well as to examine relationships between aerobic power, body composition and maximal skiing velocity versus STT performance. Nine male elite cross-country skiers performed three tests on snow: (1) Maximum velocity test (Vmax) performed using G3 skating, (2) Vmax test performed using double poling (DP) technique and (3) a STT over 1,425 m. Additional measurements of VO2max during roller skiing and body composition using iDXA were made. Differential global navigation satellite system data were used for position and velocity and synchronized with video during STT. The STT encompassed a large velocity range (2.9-12.9 m s-1) and multiple transitions (21-34) between skiing gears. Skiing velocity in the uphill sections was related to gear selection between G2 and G3. STT performance was most strongly correlated to uphill time (r = 0.92, P < 0.05), the percentage use of G2 (r = -0.72, P < 0.05), and DP Vmax (r = -0.71, P < 0.05). The velocity decrease in the uphills from lap 1 to lap 2 was correlated with VO2max (r = -0.78, P < 0.05). Vmax in DP and G3 were related to percent of racing time using G3. In conclusion, the sprint skiing performance was mainly related to uphill performance, greater use of the G3 technique, and higher DP and G3 maximum velocities. Additionally, VO2max was related to the ability to maintain racing velocity in the uphills and lean body mass was related to starting velocity and DP maximal speed.

Long-term training of breath-hold diving reduces the hypercapnic ventilatory response (HCVR), an index of the CO(2) sensitivity. The aim of the present study was to elucidate whether also short-term apnea training (repeating apneas with short intervals) reduces the HCVR, thereby being one contributing factor explaining the progressively increasing breath-holding time (BHT) with repetition of apneas. Fourteen healthy volunteers performed a series of five maximal-duration apneas with face immersion and two measurements of the HCVR, using the Read rebreathing method. The BHT increased by 43% during the series of apneas (P < 0.001). However, the slope of the HCVR test was not affected by the series of apneas, being 2.52 (SD 1.27) and 2.24 (SD 1.14) l min(-1) mmHg(-1) in the control test and in the test performed within 2 min after the last apnea of the series, respectively (NS). Thus, a change in the HCVR cannot explain the observed short-term training effect on BHT.

Testosterone and cortisol respond to exercise stimuli and modulate adaptation.Episodic basal secretion of these hormones may modify the responsiveness of these hormones.We sought to identify episodic steroid secretion via frequent salivary sampling and investigate any interaction between ultradian rhythmicity and induced changes in testosterone.

Salivary testosterone and cortisol concentrations of seven males (age 20-40 y) were measured every 10 min between 0800-1600 h on three consecutive days.On either the second or third day, three interventions designed to elicit a hormonal response were randomly assigned: sprint exercise (two 30-s maximal efforts on a cycle ergometer); boxing (two 30-s maximal punching efforts); and a violent video game (10 min of player-versus-player combat).On the other days subjects were inactive.

Testosterone data on non-intervention days suggested pulsatile secretion with a pulse interval of 47 ± 9 min (mean ± SD).The sprint intervention substantially affected hormones: it elicited a small transient elevation in testosterone (by a factor of 1.21; factor 90% confidence limits x/1.21) 10 min after exercise, and a moderate elevation in cortisol peaking 50 min post-exercise (factor 2.3; x/2.6).The testosterone response correlated with the change in testosterone concentration in the 10 min prior to the sprint (r=0.78; 90%CL 0.22 to 0.95) and with a measure of randomness in testosterone fluctuations (r=0.83; 0.35 to 0.96).

Thus, the salivary testosterone response to exercise may be dependent on the underlying ultradian rhythm and aspects of its regulation.This interaction may have important implications for adaptation to exercise.

Several endurance sports, e.g. road cycling, have a varying intensity profile during competition. At present, few laboratory tests take this intensity profile into consideration. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the prognostic value of heart rate (HR), lactate (La−1), potassium (K+), and respiratory exchange ratio (RER) performance at an exhausting cycling exercise with varying intensity. Eight national level cyclists performed two cycle tests each on a cycle ergometer: (1) a incremental test to establish VO2max, maximum power (W max), and lactate threshold (VO2LT), and (2) a variable intensity protocol (VIP). Exercise intensity for the VIP was based upon the VO2max obtained during the incremental test. The VIP consisted of six high intense (HI) workloads at 90% of VO2max for 3 min each, interspersed by five middle intense (MI) workloads at 70% of VO2max for 6 min each. VO2 and HR were continuously measured throughout the tests. Venous blood samples were taken before, during, and after the test. Increases in HR, La-, K+, and RER were observed when workload changed from MI to HI workload (P < 0.05). Potassium and RER decreased after transition from HI to MI workloads (P < 0.05). There was a negative correlation between time to exhaustion and decrease in La- concentration during the first MI (r = −0.714; P = 0.047). Furthermore, time to exhaustion correlated with VO2LT calculated from the ramp test (r = 0.738; P = 0.037). Our results suggest that the magnitude of decrease of La−1 between the first HI workload and the consecutive MI workload could predict performance during prolonged exercise with variable intensity

Purpose: To assess the circadian variations in salivary immunoglobin A (sIgA) and alpha-amylase activity (sAA), biomarkers of mucosal immune function, together with mood during 2 weeks of repeated sprint training in hypoxia (RSH) and normoxia (RSN). Methods: Over a 2-week period, 17 competitive cross-country skiers performed six training sessions, each consisting of four sets of five 10-s bouts of all-out double-poling under either normobaric hypoxia (FiO2: 13.8 %, 3000 m) or normoxia. The levels of sIgA and sAA activity and mood were determined five times during each of the first (T1) and sixth (T6) days of training, as well as during days preceding (baseline) and after the training intervention (follow-up). Results: With RSH, sIgA was higher on T6 than T1 (P = 0.049), and sAA was increased on days T1, T6, and during the follow-up (P &lt; 0.01). With RSN, sIgA remained unchanged and sAA was elevated on day T1 only (P = 0.04). Similarly, the RSH group demonstrated reduced mood on days T1, T6, and during the follow-up, while mood was lowered only on T1 with RSN (P &lt; 0.01). Conclusions: The circadian variation of sIgA and sAA activity, biomarkers of mucosal immune function, as well as mood were similar on the first day of training when repeated double-poling sprints were performed with or without hypoxia. Only with RSH did the levels of sIgA and sAA activity rise with time, becoming maximal after six training sessions, when mood was still lowered. Therefore, six sessions of RSH reduced mood, but did not impair mucosal immune function. © 2015, Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.

Cardiopulmonary kinetics and electromyographic activity (EMG) during exhausting exercise were measured in 8 males performing three maximal combined arm + leg exercises (cA+L). These exercises were performed at different rates of work (mean ± SD; 373 ± 48, 429 ± 55 and 521 ± 102 W) leading to different average exercise work times in all tests and subjects. reached a plateau versus work rate in every maximal cA+L exercise (range 6 min 33 s to 3 min 13 s). The three different exercise protocols gave a maximal oxygen consumption of 4.67 ± 0.57, 4.58 ± 0.52 and 4.66 ± 0.53 l min−1 (P = 0.081), and a maximal heart rate (HRmax) of 190 ± 6, 189 ± 4 and 189 ± 6 beats min−1 (P = 0.673), respectively. Root mean square EMG (EMGRMS) of the vastus lateralis and the triceps brachii muscles increased with increasing rate of work and time in all three cA+L protocols. The study demonstrates that despite different maximal rates of work, leading to different times to exhaustion, the circulatory adaptation to maximal exercise was almost identical in all three protocols that led to a plateau. The EMGRMS data showed increased muscle recruitment with increasing work rate, even though the HRmax and was the same in all three cA+L protocols. In conclusion, these findings do not support the theory of the existence of a central governor (CG) that regulates circulation and neuronal output of skeletal muscles during maximal exercise. Thibault Brink-Elfegoun and Hans-Christer Holmberg contributed equally to this article.

The aim here was to employ color tissue velocity imaging (TVI), to test the hypothesis that highly trained endurance athletes exhibit enhanced systolic function of the left ventricular (LV) myocardium both at rest and during combined arm-and-leg exercise in comparison with untrained subjects. For each of the ten elite male (EG) and ten matched control participants (CG), LV dimensions and systolic function were assessed at rest using echocardiography. Subsequently, these subjects exercised continuously on a combined arm-and-leg cycle ergometer for 3 min each at 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100% of VO_2max. Oxygen uptake, heart rate, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and peak contraction systolic velocities of the LV myocardium (PSV) were recorded in the end of each level. At rest, the trained and untrained groups differed with respect to LV dimensions, but not systolic function. At 60–100% VO_2max, the EG group demonstrated both higher PSV and SBP. The observation that the EG athletes had higher PSV than CG during exercise at 60–100% VO_2max, but not at rest or at 50% of VO_2max, suggested an enhanced systolic capacity. This improvement is likely to be due to an enhanced inotropic contractility, which only becomes apparent during exercise.

Hypoxia-induced increases in red blood cell production have been found in both altitudeadapted populations and acclimatized lowlanders. This process is mediated by erythropoietin (EPO) released mainly by the hypoxic kidney. We have previously observed high hemoglobin concentrations in elite breath-hold divers and our aim was to investigate whether apnea-induced hypoxia could increase EPO concentration. Ten healthy volunteers performed 15 voluntary maximal duration apneas, divided into three seriesof five apneas, each series separated by 10 min of rest. Apneas within series were separated by 2 min and preceded by 1 min of hyperventilation to increase apnea duration and arterial oxygen desaturation. When EPO concentration after serial apneas was compared to baseline values, an average maximum increase of 24% was found (P<0.01). No changes in EPO concentration were observed during a control day without apnea, eliminating possible effects of a diurnal rhythm or blood loss. We therefore conclude that serial apneas increase circulating EPO concentration in humans.

Purpose: Pronounced differences in individual physiological adaptation may occur following various training mesocycles in runners. Here we aimed to assess the individual changes in performance and physiological adaptation of recreational runners performing mesocycles with different intensity, duration and frequency. Methods: Employing a randomized cross-over design, the intra-individual physiological responses [i.e., peak (V ˙ O 2 peak) and submaximal (V ˙ O 2 submax) oxygen uptake, velocity at lactate thresholds (V2, V4)] and performance (time-to-exhaustion (TTE)) of 13 recreational runners who performed three 3-week sessions of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), high-volume low-intensity training (HVLIT) or more but shorter sessions of HVLIT (high-frequency training; HFT) were assessed. Results: V ˙ O 2 submax, V2, V4 and TTE were not altered by HIIT, HVLIT or HFT (p &gt; 0.05). V ˙ O 2 peak improved to the same extent following HVLIT (p = 0.045) and HFT (p = 0.02). The number of moderately negative responders was higher following HIIT (15.4%); and HFT (15.4%) than HVLIT (7.6%). The number of very positive responders was higher following HVLIT (38.5%) than HFT (23%) or HIIT (7.7%). 46% of the runners responded positively to two mesocycles, while 23% did not respond to any. Conclusion: On a group level, none of the interventions altered V ˙ O 2 submax, V2, V4 or TTE, while HVLIT and HFT improved V ˙ O 2 peak. The mean adaptation index indicated similar numbers of positive, negative and non-responders to HIIT, HVLIT and HFT, but more very positive responders to HVLIT than HFT or HIIT. 46% responded positively to two mesocycles, while 23% did not respond to any. These findings indicate that the magnitude of responses to HIIT, HVLIT and HFT is highly individual and no pattern was apparent. 

Purpose Exposure to cold air may harm the airways. It is unclear to what extent heavy exercise adds to the cold-induced effects on peripheral airways, airway epithelium, and systemic immunity among healthy individuals. We investigated acute effects of heavy exercise in sub-zero temperatures on the healthy airways. Methods Twenty-nine healthy individuals underwent whole body exposures to cold air in an environmental chamber at - 15 degrees C for 50 min on two occasions; a 35-min exercise protocol consisting of a 5-min warm-up followed by 2 x 15 min of running at 85% of VO(2)max vs. 50 min at rest. Lung function was measured by impulse oscillometry (IOS) and spirometry before and immediately after exposures. CC16 in plasma and urine, and cytokines in plasma were measured before and 60 min after exposures. Symptoms were surveyed pre-, during and post-trials. Results FEV1 decreased after rest (- 0.10 +/- 0.03 L, p < 0.001) and after exercise (- 0.06 +/- 0.02 L, p = 0.012), with no difference between trials. Exercise in - 15 degrees C induced greater increases in lung reactance (X5; p = 0.023), plasma CC16 (p < 0.001) as well as plasma IL-8 (p < 0.001), compared to rest. Exercise induced more intense symptoms from the lower airways, whereas rest gave rise to more general symptoms. Conclusion Heavy exercise during cold air exposure at - 15 degrees C induced signs of an airway constriction to a similar extent as rest in the same environment. However, biochemical signs of airway epithelial stress, cytokine responses, and symptoms from the lower airways were more pronounced after the exercise trial.

Fatigue induced via a maximal isometric contraction of a single limb muscle group can evoke a "cross-over" of fatigue that reduces voluntary muscle activation and maximum isometric force in the rested contralateral homologous muscle group. We asked whether a cross-over of fatigue also occurs when fatigue is induced via high-intensity endurance exercise involving a substantial muscle mass. Specifically, we used high-intensity single-leg cycling to induce fatigue and evaluated associated effects on maximum cycling power (P max) in the fatigued ipsilateral leg (FATleg) as well as the rested contralateral leg (RESTleg). On separate days, 12 trained cyclists performed right leg P max trials before and again 30 s, 3, 5, and 10 min after a cycling time trial (TT, 10 min) performed either with their right or left leg. Fatigue was estimated by comparing exercise-induced changes in P max and maximum handgrip isometric force (F max). Mean power produced during the right and left leg TTs did not differ (203 ± 8 vs. 199 ± 8 W). Compared to pre-TT, FATleg P max was reduced by 22 ± 3 % at 30 s post-TT and remained reduced by 9 ± 2 % at 5 min post-TT (both P < 0.05). Despite considerable power loss in the FATleg, post-TT RESTleg P max (596–603 W) did not differ from pre-TT values (596 ± 35 W). There were no alterations in handgrip F max (529–547 N). Our data suggest that any potential cross-over of fatigue, if present at all, was not sufficient to measurably compromise RESTleg P max in trained cyclists. These results along with the lack of changes in handgrip F max indicate that impairments in maximal voluntary neuromuscular function were specific to working muscles.

Exercise-induced shifts in signal intensity (SI) of magnetic resonance (MR) images were examined to assess indirectly muscle use in closed- and open-chain knee extensor exercises. Eight men performed five sets of 8–12 repetitions in the leg press (LP) and the seated knee extension (KE) exercises at 50, 75 and 100%, respectively of the 5·10 repetition maximum (RM) load. Prior to exercise and after each load setting, images of the thigh were obtained. The increase in SI (D SI) of the quadriceps at 100% load was greater (P<0.05) after KE (32.1±9.0%) than after LP (21.9±9.2%). Regardless of load, the four individual muscles of the quadriceps showed similar changes in SI after LP. The three vastii muscles showed comparable increases in SI after KE. M. rectus femoris showed greater (P<0.05) D SI than the vastii muscles at 100%. Neither exercise produced increase in SI of mm. semimembranosus, semitendinosus, gracilis or biceps femoris. Mm. adductor magnus and longus showed increased (13.3±6.5%; P<0.05) SI after LP, but not after KE, at 100% load. The present data also infer greater involvement of the quadriceps muscle in the open-chain knee extension than in the closedchain leg press exercise. The results of the current investigation also indicate similar over-all use among the three vastii muscles in LP and KE, but ifferential m. rectus femoris use between the two exercises. This report extends the merits of the MR imaging technique as an aid to study individual muscle involvement in a particular exercise task.

Purpose: This study assessed markers of muscle damage and training adaptations to eccentric-overload flywheel resistance exercise (RE) in men and women. Methods: Dynamic strength (1 RM), jump performance, maximal power at different percentages of 1 RM, and muscle mass in three different portions of the thigh were assessed in 16 men and 16 women before and after 6 weeks (15 sessions) of flywheel supine squat RE training. Plasma creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) concentrations were measured before, 24, 48 and 72 h after the first and the last training session. Results: After training, increases in 1 RM were somewhat greater (interaction P < 0.001) in men (25 %) than in women (20 %). Squat and drop jump height and power performance at 50, 60, 70 and 80 % of 1 RM increased after training in both sexes (P < 0.05). Power improvement at 80 % of 1 RM was greater (interaction P < 0.02) in men than women. Muscle mass increased ~5 % in both groups (P < 0.05). CK increased in men after the first training session (P < 0.001), whereas the response in women was unaltered. In both sexes, LDH concentration was greater after the first training session compared with basal values (P < 0.05). After the last session, CK and LDH remained at baseline in both groups. Conclusions: These results suggest that although improvements in maximal strength and power at high loads may be slightly greater for men, eccentric-overload RE training induces comparable and favorable gains in strength, power, and muscle mass in both men and women. Equally important, it appears muscle damage does not interfere with the adaptations triggered by this training paradigm. © 2014 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.

Purpose: To characterize gender differences in power output, energetic capacity and exercise efficiency during whole-body (WP), upper-body (UP), and arm poling (AP). Methods: Ten male and ten female elite cross-country skiers, matched for international performance level, completed three incremental submaximal tests and a 3-min self-paced performance test on a Concept2 SkiErg. Power output, cardiorespiratory and kinematic variables were monitored. Body composition was determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Results: The men demonstrated 87, 97 and 103 % higher power output, and 51, 65 and 71 % higher VO2peak (L min−1) than the women during WP, UP and AP, respectively, while utilizing ~10 % more of their running VO2max in all modes (all P < 0.001). The men had 35, 38 and 59 % more lean mass in the whole body, upper body and arms (all P < 0.001). The men exhibited greater shoulder and elbow extension at the start of poling and greater trunk flexion at the end of poling (all P < 0.05). The relationship between VO2 and power output did not differ between the men and women. Conclusions: Gender differences in power production and peak aerobic capacity increased sequentially from WP to UP to AP, coinciding with a greater portion of the muscle mass in the arms of the men. Although the men and women employed each poling technique differently, the estimated efficiency of double poling was independent of gender.

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the regional differences in glucose and fatty acid uptake within skeletal muscle during exercise. Blood flow (BF), glucose uptake (GU) and free fatty acid uptake (FFAU) were measured in four different regions (vastus lateralis, VL; rectus femoris, RF; vastus intermedius, VI; and vastus medialis, VM) of the quadriceps femoris (QF) muscle during low-intensity, knee-extension exercise using positron emission tomography. BF was higher in VI than in VL, RF and VM (P < 0.05). FFAU was higher in VI (P < 0.001) but also in VM (P < 0.05) compared with VL and RF. In contrast, GU was higher in RF compared with VL (P < 0.05) but was not significantly different to VM or VI (both P = NS). FFAU within these four muscle regions correlated significantly with BF (r = 0.951, P < 0.05), whereas no significant relationship was observed between GU and BF (r = 0.352, P = NS). Therefore, skeletal muscle FFAU, but not GU, appears to be associated with BF during low-intensity exercise. The present results also indicate considerable regional differences in substrate use within working QF muscle. As such, an important methodological outcome from these results is that one sample from a specific part of the QF muscle does not represent the response in the entire QF muscle group.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a bioenergetic model describing the dynamic behavior of the alactic, lactic, and aerobic metabolic energy supply systems as well as different sources of the total metabolic energy demand.

Methods

The bioenergetic supply model consisted of terms for the alactic, lactic, and aerobic system metabolic rates while the demand model consisted of terms for the corresponding metabolic rates of principal cycling work, pulmonary ventilation, and accumulated metabolites. The bioenergetic model was formulated as a system of differential equations and model parameters were estimated by a non-linear grey-box approach, utilizing power output and aerobic metabolic rate (MRae) data from fourteen cyclists performing an experimental trial (P2) on a cycle ergometer. Validity was assessed by comparing model simulation and measurements on a similar follow-up experimental trial (P3).

Results

The root mean square error between modelled and measured MRae was 61.9 ± 7.9 W and 79.2 ± 30.5 W for P2 and P3, respectively. The corresponding mean absolute percentage error was 8.6 ± 1.5% and 10.6 ± 3.3% for P2 and P3, respectively.

Conclusion

The validation of the model showed excellent overall agreement between measured and modeled MRae during intermittent cycling by well-trained male cyclist. However, the standard deviation was 38.5% of the average root mean square error for P3, indicating not as good reliability.

The human spleen acts as a reservoir for red blood cells, which is mobilized into the systemic circulation during various conditions such as hypoxia and physical exertion. Cross-country (XC) skiers, renowned for their exceptional aerobic capacity, are regularly exposed to high-intensity exercise and local oxygen deficits. We investigated a putative dose-dependent relationship between splenic contraction and concomitant hemoglobin concentration ([Hb]) elevation across four exercise intensities in well-trained XC skiers. Fourteen male XC skiers voluntarily participated in a 2-day protocol, encompassing a serial apnea test and a VO2max test (day 1), followed by three submaximal exercise intensities on a roller skiing treadmill corresponding to 55, 70, and 85% of VO2max (day 2). Spleen volume was measured via ultrasonic imaging, and venous blood samples were used to determine [Hb] levels. Baseline spleen volume was similar (266(35) mL) for all conditions (NS). Notably, all conditions induced significant splenic contractions and transient [Hb] elevations. The VO2max test exhibited the most pronounced splenic contraction (35.8%, p < 0.001) and a [Hb] increase of 8.1%, while the 85% exercise intensity led to 27.1% contraction and the greatest [Hb] increase (8.3%, < 0.001) compared to baseline. The apnea test induced relatively smaller responses (splenic contraction: 20.4%, [Hb] = 3.3%, p < 0.001), akin to the response observed at the 70% exercise intensity (splenic contraction = 23%, [Hb] = 6.4%, p < 0,001) and 55% (splenic contraction = 20.0%, [Hb] = 4.8%, p < 0.001). This study shows a discernible dose-dependent relationship between splenic contraction and [Hb] increase with levels of exercise, effectively distinguishing between submaximal and maximal exercise intensity.

The purpose of the study was to examine the biomechanical-physiological effects of different frequencies using the double poling technique in cross-country skiing. Nine elite skiers roller-skied using poling frequencies of 40, 60 and 80 cycles·min^-1 (Pf_40, Pf₆₀, Pf₈₀) at submaximal treadmill speeds (12, 18, 24 km·h^-1). Cycle characteristics, pole forces, joint angles and physiological responses were measured. Comparing Pf₄₀ versus Pf₆₀ versus Pf₈₀ (all variables different at P < 0.05), absolute poling time decreased by up to 46%, as did absolute and relative (% cycle time) recovery times, at almost all speeds. Peak force, impulse of force and time to peak force decreased, whereas impact force increased with frequency at almost all speeds. Elbow ranges of motion and angular velocities, hip and knee angle maxima and flexion/extension ranges of motion per cycle decreased, whereas hip and knee angle minima, ranges of motion per minute and angular extension velocities during recovery phase all increased with frequency at nearly all speeds. Oxygen uptake and heart rate increased up to 13% (Pf_40-60 versus Pf₈₀) at all speeds. Pulmonary ventilation increased most distinctly at the highest speed. Blood lactate was lowest at Pf₆₀ and highest at Pf₈₀ (J-shape curve) at 24 km·h^-1. Gross efficiency decreased with higher frequency at all speeds. These results demonstrate different biomechanical and physiological demands at different frequencies with the beneficial effects of lower poling frequencies at submaximal speeds. For training purposes, we suggest that cross-country skiers would benefit by training with different poling frequencies to vary their training load.

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) contraction is integrated in neuromuscular activation in upper body muscles during double poling in cross-country skiing. Thirteen elite skiers performed double poling roller-skiing at increasing treadmill velocities of 9, 15, 21, 27 km h(-1) and their individual maximal velocity. Elbow angle, axial pole force and surface EMG in the triceps brachii, pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi and teres major muscle were recorded. Increases in peak pole force, rate of force development and elbow flexion angular velocities were identified (P < 0.05). The mean MVC-normalized EMG amplitudes increased during the pre-activation phase before pole plant, elbow flexion and the reflex-mediated phase between 30 and 120 ms after pole plant due to velocity increases (P < 0.05). It is thus suggested that elite cross-country skiers use SSC during double poling, particularly in the triceps muscle in order to generate high forces.

Purpose: Splenic contraction increases circulating hemoglobin (Hb) with advantages during hypoxia. As both hypoxia and exercise have been shown to be important separate triggers of splenic contraction we aimed to investigate if the spleen response to simulated high altitude (HA) is enhanced by superimposing exercise. Method: Fourteen healthy volunteers (seven females) performed the following protocol in a normobaric environment sitting on an ergometer cycle: 20 min rest in normoxia; 20 min rest while breathing hypoxic gas simulating an altitude of 3500 m; 10 min exercise at an individually set intensity while breathing the hypoxic gas; 20 min rest in hypoxia; and finally 20 min rest in normoxia. Spleen measurements were collected by ultrasonic imaging and venous Hb measured at the end of each intervention. Result: Mean ± SD baseline spleen volume during normoxic rest was 280 ± 107 mL, the volume was reduced by 22% during rest in hypoxia to 217 ± 92 mL (p < 0.001) and by 33% during exercise in hypoxia (189 mL; p < 0.001). Hb was 140.7 ± 7.0 g/L during normoxic rest and 141.3 ± 7.4 g/L during hypoxic rest (NS), but increased by 5.3% during hypoxic exercise (148.6 ± 6.3 g/L; p < 0.001). Spleen volume and Hb were stepwise changed back to baseline at cessation of exercise and return to normoxia. Conclusion: Splenic contraction is induced by hypoxia and further enhanced by superimposing exercise, and reduced when exercise ceases, in a step-wise manner, showing that the tonic but partial contraction observed in long-term field expeditions to HA may occur also in the short term. This “graded response” may be beneficial during acclimatization to HA, to cope with moderate chronic hypoxia during rest while allowing additional enhancement of oxygen carrying capacity to overcome short bouts of extreme hypoxia caused by exercise. 

Purpose: In cross-country sit-skiing (XCSS), athletes with reduced trunk control predominantly sit with the knees higher than the hips (KH); a position often associated with large spinal flexion. Therefore, to improve spinal curvature a new sledge with frontal trunk support, where knees are lower than hips (KL) was created. It was hypothesized that the KL position would improve respiratory function and enhance performance in seated double-poling compared to KH.

Methods: Ten female able-bodied cross-country skiers (age 25.5 ± 3.8 years, height 1.65 ± 0.05 m, mass 61.1 ± 6.8 kg) completed a 30 s all-out test (WIN), a submaximal incremental test including 3–7 3 min loads (SUB) and a maximal 3 min time trial (MAX) in both KL and KH positions. During SUB and MAX external power, pole forces, surface electromyography, and kinematics were measured. Metabolic rates were calculated from oxygen consumption and blood lactate concentrations.

Results: KL reduced spinal flexion and range of motion at the hip joint and indicated more muscle activation in the triceps. Performance (W kg−1) was impeded in both WIN (KH 1.40 ± 0.30 vs. KL 1.13 ± 0.33, p < 0.01) and MAX (KH 0.88 ± 0.19 vs. KL 0.67 ± 0.14, p < 0.01). KH resulted in higher gross efficiency (GE) and lower lactate concentration, anaerobic metabolic rate, and minute ventilation for equal power output.

Conclusions: The new KL position can be recommended due to improved respiratory function but may impede performance. Generalization of results to XCSS athletes with reduced trunk muscle control may be limited, but these results can serve as a control for future studies of para-athletes.

The present study examined the reliability of work and power measures during a 5 × 6-s cycle ergometer test of repeated-sprint ability. Nine, well-trained, female soccer players performed five, 5 × 6-s repeated-sprint tests on a front-access cycle ergometer on separate days. Sprints were separated by 24 s of active recovery. Absolute measures of total work done (W _tot), total peak power (PP_tot), work done during sprint 1 (W ₁) and peak power output during sprint 1 (PP₁) were recorded. Decrement scores in work done (W _dec) and peak power output (PP_dec), and fatigue indices for work done (FI _W ) and peak power (FI _P ), were calculated. Significant improvements in all of the work and power measures were observed between trial 1 and subsequent trials (P < 0.05), but no significant differences were identified between trials 2, 3, 4 and 5. The same was true for increases in the decrement scores. The coefficient of variation (CV) was established to reflect within-subject reproducibility for each variable. The CV was significantly improved by the third trial for work done (W _tot CV: trials 1–2 = 5.5%; trials 3–4 = 2.8%), peak power (PP_tot CV: trials 1–2 = 5.1%; trials 3–4 = 2.7%) and performance decrement scores (P < 0.05). The standard error of measurement (SEM) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were also calculated for each variable and expressed within 95% confidence intervals. It was concluded that two familiarisation trials are optimal for collecting reliable data from a 5 × 6-s repeated-sprint cycling test. Furthermore, due to the large variation around performance decrement it was suggested that decrement scores ought to be interpreted with caution.

Purpose: To examine the effect of freediving depth on risk for hypoxic blackout by recording arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate (HR) during deep and shallow dives in the sea. Methods: Fourteen competitive freedivers conducted open-water training dives wearing a water-/pressure proof pulse oximeter continuously recording HR and SpO2. Dives were divided into deep (&gt; 35 m) and shallow (10–25 m) post-hoc and data from one deep and one shallow dive from 10 divers were compared. Results: Mean ± SD depth was 53 ± 14 m for deep and 17 ± 4 m for shallow dives. Respective dive durations (120 ± 18 s and 116 ± 43 s) did not differ. Deep dives resulted in lower minimum SpO2 (58 ± 17%) compared with shallow dives (74 ± 17%; P = 0.029). Overall diving HR was 7 bpm higher in deep dives (P = 0.002) although minimum HR was similar in both types of dives (39 bpm). Three divers desaturated early at depth, of which two exhibited severe hypoxia (SpO2 ≤ 65%) upon resurfacing. Additionally, four divers developed severe hypoxia after dives. Conclusions: Despite similar dive durations, oxygen desaturation was greater during deep dives, confirming increased risk of hypoxic blackout with increased depth. In addition to the rapid drop in alveolar pressure and oxygen uptake during ascent, several other risk factors associated with deep freediving were identified, including higher swimming effort and oxygen consumption, a compromised diving response, an autonomic conflict possibly causing arrhythmias, and compromised oxygen uptake at depth by lung compression possibly leading to atelectasis or pulmonary edema in some individuals. Individuals with elevated risk could likely be identified using wearable technology. 

Whole muscle glycogen levels remain low for a prolonged period following a soccer match. The present study was conducted to investigate how this relates to glycogen content and particle size in distinct subcellular localizations. Seven high-level male soccer players had a vastus lateralis muscle biopsy collected immediately after and 24, 48, 72 and 120 h after a competitive soccer match. Transmission electron microscopy was used to estimate the subcellular distribution of glycogen and individual particle size. During the first day of recovery, glycogen content increased by ~60% in all subcellular localizations, but during the subsequent second day of recovery glycogen content located within the myofibrils (Intramyofibrillar glycogen, a minor deposition constituting 10–15% of total glycogen) did not increase further compared with an increase in subsarcolemmal glycogen (−7 vs. +25%, respectively, P = 0.047). Conversely, from the second to the fifth day of recovery, glycogen content increased (53%) within the myofibrils compared to no change in subsarcolemmal or intermyofibrillar glycogen (P < 0.005). Independent of location, increment in particle size preceded increment in number of particles. Intriguingly, average particle size decreased; however, in the period from 3 to 5 days after the match. These findings suggest that glycogen storage in skeletal muscle is influenced by subcellular localization-specific mechanisms, which account for an increase in number of glycogen particles located within the myofibrils in the period from 2 to 5 days after the soccer match.

Fifteen healthy men performed a 5-week training program comprising four sets of seven unilateral, coupled concentric-eccentric knee extensions 2-3 times weekly. While eight men were assigned to training using a weight stack (WS) machine, seven men trained using a flywheel (FW) device, which inherently provides variable resistance and allows for eccentric overload. The design of these apparatuses ensured similar knee extensor muscle use and range of motion. Before and after training, maximal isometric force (MVC) was measured in tasks non-specific to the training modes. Volume of all individual quadriceps muscles was determined by magnetic resonance imaging. Performance across the 12 exercise sessions was measured using the inherent features of the devices. Whereas MVC increased (P < 0.05) at all angles measured in FW, such a change was less consistent in WS. There was a marked increase (P < 0.05) in task-specific performance (i.e., load lifted) in WS. Average work showed a non-significant 8.7% increase in FW. Quadriceps muscle volume increased (P < 0.025) in both groups after training. Although the more than twofold greater hypertrophy evident in FW (6.2%) was not statistically greater than that shown in WS (3.0%), all four individual quadriceps muscles of FW showed increased (P < 0.025) volume whereas in WS only m. rectus femoris was increased (P < 0.025). Collectively the results of this study suggest more robust muscular adaptations following flywheel than weight stack resistance exercise supporting the idea that eccentric overload offers a potent stimuli essential to optimize the benefits of resistance exercise.

Changes in muscle activation and performance were studied in healthy men in response to 5 weeks of resistance training with or without “eccentric overload”. Subjects, assigned to either weight stack (grp WS; n = 8) or iso-inertial “eccentric overload” flywheel (grp FW; n = 9) knee extensor resistance training, completed 12 sessions of four sets of seven concentric–eccentric actions. Pre- and post-measurements comprised maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), rate of force development (RFD) and training mode-specific force. Root mean square electromyographic (EMGRMS) activity of mm. vastus lateralis and medialis was assessed during MVC and used to normalize EMGRMS for training mode-specific concentric (EMGCON) and eccentric (EMGECC) actions at 90°, 120° and 150° knee joint angles. Grp FW showed greater (p < 0.05) overall normalized angle-specific EMGECC of vastii muscles compared with grp WS. Grp FW showed near maximal normalized EMGCON both pre- and post-training. EMGCON for Grp WS was near maximal only post-training. While RFD was unchanged following training (p > 0.05), MVC and training-specific strength increased (p < 0.05) in both groups. We believe the higher EMGECC activity noted with FW exercise compared to standard weight lifting could be attributed to its unique iso-inertial loading features. Hence, the resulting greater mechanical stress may explain the robust muscle hypertrophy reported earlier in response to flywheel resistance training.

Purpose

Hyperventilation is considered a major risk factor for hypoxic blackout during breath-hold diving, as it delays the apnea breaking point. However, little is known about how it affects oxygenation, the diving response, and spleen contraction during serial breath-holding.

Methods

18 volunteers with little or no experience in freediving performed two series of 5 apneas with cold facial immersion to maximal duration at 2-min intervals. In one series, apnea was preceded by normal breathing and in the other by 15 s of hyperventilation. End-tidal oxygen and end-tidal carbon dioxide were measured before and after every apnea, and peripheral oxygen saturation, heart rate, breathing movements, and skin blood flow were measured continuously. Spleen dimensions were measured every 15 s.

Results

Apnea duration was longer after hyperventilation (133 vs 111 s). Hyperventilation reduced pre-apnea end-tidal CO2 (17.4 vs 29.0 mmHg) and post-apnea end-tidal CO2 (38.5 vs 40.3 mmHg), and delayed onset of involuntary breathing movements (112 vs 89 s). End-tidal O2 after apnea was lower in the hyperventilation trial (83.4 vs 89.4 mmHg) and so was the peripheral oxygen saturation nadir after apnea (90.6 vs 93.6%). During hyperventilation, the nadir peripheral oxygen saturation was lower in the last apnea than in the first (94.0% vs 86.7%). There were no differences in diving response or spleen volume reduction between conditions or across series.

Conclusions

Serial apneas  revealed a previously undescribed aspect of hyperventilation; a progressively increased desaturation across the series, not observed after normal breathing and could heighten the risk of a blackout.

Increased hemoglobin concentration (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) attributable to spleen contraction raises blood gas storage capacity during apnea, but the mechanisms that trigger this response have not been clarified. We focused on the role of hypoxia in triggering these Hb and Hct elevations. After horizontal rest for 20 min, 10 volunteers performed 3 maximal apneas spaced by 2 min, each preceded by a deep inspiration of air. The series was repeated using the same apneic durations but after 1 min of 100% oxygen breathing and oxygen inspiration prior to apneas. Mean apneic durations were 150s, 171s, and 214s for apneas 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Relative to pre-apnea values, the mean post-apneic arterial oxygen saturation nadir was 84.7% after air and 98% after oxygen. A more pronounced elevation of both Hb and Hct occurred during the air trial: after apnea 1 with air, mean Hb had increased by 1.5% (P<0.01), but no clear increase was found after the first apnea in with oxygen. After the third apnea with air Hb had increased by 3.0% (P<0.01), and with oxygen by 2.0% (P<0.01). After the first apnea with air Hct had increased by 1.9% (P<0.01) and after 3 apneas by 3.0% (P<0.01), but Hct did not change significantly in the oxygen trial. In both trials, Hb and Hct were at pre-apneic levels 10 min after apneas. Diving bradycardia during apnea was the same in both trials. We concluded that hypoxia is essential in inducing spleen-related Hb and Hct increase during apnea.

Spleen contraction resulting in an increase in circulating erythrocytes has been shown to occur during apnea. This effect, however, has not previously been studied during normobaric hypoxia whilst breathing. After 20 min of horizontal rest and normoxic breathing, five subjects underwent 20-min of normobaric hypoxic breathing (12.8% oxygen) followed by 10 min of normoxic breathing. Ultrasound measurements of spleen volume and samples for venous hemoglobin concentration (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) were taken simultaneously at short intervals from 20 min before until 10 min after the hypoxic period. Heart rate, arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) and respiration rate were recorded continuously. During hypoxia, a reduction in SaO2 by 34% (P < 0.01) was accompanied by an 18% reduction in spleen volume and a 2.1% increase in both Hb and Hct (P < 0.05). Heart rate increased 28% above baseline (P < 0.05). Within 3 min after hypoxia SaO2 had returned to pre-hypoxic levels, and spleen volume, Hb and Hct had all returned to pre-hypoxic levels within 10 min. Respiratory rate remained stable throughout the protocol. This study of short-term exposure to eupneic normobaric hypoxia suggests that hypoxia plays a key role in triggering spleen contraction and subsequent release of stored erythrocytes in humans. This response could be beneficial during early altitude acclimatization.

The aim of this study was to evaluate two versions of the Oxycon Mobile portable metabolic system, (OMPS1 and OMPS2) in a wide range of oxygen uptake, using the Douglas bag method (DBM) as criterion method. The metabolic variables VO2, VCO2, respiratory exchange ratio and VE were measured during submaximal and maximal cycle ergometer exercise with sedentary, moderately trained individuals and athletes as participants. Test-retest reliability was investigated using the OMPS1. The coefficients of variation varied between 2% and 7% for the metabolic parameters measured at different work rates, and resembled those obtained with the DBM. With the OMPS1, systematic errors were found in the determination of VO2 and VCO2. At submaximal work rates VO2 was 6-14% and VCO2 5-9% higher than with the DBM. At VO2max both VO2 and VCO2 were slightly lower as compared to DBM (-4.1% and -2.8% respectively). With OMPS2, VO2 was determined accurately within a wide measurement range (about 1-5.5 L*min-1), while VCO2 was overestimated (3-7%). VE was accurate at submaximal work rates with both OMPS1 and OMPS2, whereas underestimations (4-8%) were noted at VO2max. The present study is the first to demonstrate that a wide range of VO2 can be measured accurately with the Oxycon Mobile portable metabolic system (second generation). Future investigations are suggested to clarify reasons for the small errors noted for VE and VCO2 versus the Douglas bag measurements, and also to gain knowledge of the performance of the device under applied and non-laboratory conditions.

Purpose: It is essential to validate portable metabolic systems, not only in laboratory settings, but also in field measuring conditions, such as prolonged moderate exercise at low temperatures, high humidity and with external wind.

Methods: VO₂, VCO₂, RER and V_E were measured using the Oxycon Mobile (OM), with a windshield, during cycle ergometer exercise: (I) indoors at three submaximal workloads with no wind or with external wind (13–20 m·s^-1) from front, side and back; (II) at two submaximal workloads outdoors (12 ± 2^oC; 86 ± 7% RH), with and without a system for drying the ambient air around the air sampling tube; and (III) at one workload outdoors for 45 min (5 ± 4^oC; 69 ± 16.5% RH). Any physiological drift was checked for with pre- and postmeasurements by the Douglas bag method (DBM).

Results: A minor effect of external wind from behind was noted in RER and V_E (-2 and -3%)._. The system for drying the ambient air around the gas sampling tube had no effect on the measured levels. A small difference in VCO₂ drift between the OM and DBM (1.5 mL·min^-2) was noted in the stability test.

Conclusion: Heavy external wind applied from different directions generally does not affect the measurements of the OM. Furthermore, when using a unit for drying the ambient air around the gas sampling tube, the OM can accurately measure VO₂, RER and V_E   at submaximal workloads for at least45 min under challenging conditions with regard to humidity and temperature.

During competitions, elite cross-country skiers produce higher external work rates on uphill than on flat terrain. However, it is not presently known whether this reflects solely higher energy expenditure. Furthermore, the kinematic factors associated with these higher rates of uphill work have not yet been examined. Therefore, in the present investigation the work rate and associated kinematic parameters at similar metabolic rates during roller ski skating on flat and uphill terrains have been compared. Seven elite male skiers performed six 5-min sub-maximal exercise bouts at the same low, moderate and high metabolic rates on 2 and 8% inclines, while roller skiing on a treadmill employing the G3 skating technique. The work rate was calculated as work against gravity and friction, whereas the energetic equivalent of VO2 was taken as the metabolic rate. Gross efficiency was defined as work rate divided by metabolic rate. Kinematic parameters were analyzed in three dimensions. At the same metabolic rate, the work rate, cycle rate, work per cycle and relative duration of propulsive phases during a cycle of movement were all higher on the 8% than on the 2% incline at all speeds (all P &lt; 0.05). At similar work rates, gross efficiency was greater on the 8% incline (P &lt; 0.05). In conclusion, these elite skiers consistently demonstrated higher work rates on the 8% incline. To achieve the higher work rates on the steeper incline, these elite skiers employed higher cycle rates and performed more work per cycle, in association with a longer relative propulsive phase. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.

Gender differences in performance by elite endurance athletes, including runners, track cyclists and speed skaters, have been shown to be approximately 12%. The present study was designed to examine gender differences in physiological responses and kinematics associated with sprint cross-country skiing. Eight male and eight female elite sprint cross-country skiers, matched for performance, carried out a submaximal test, a test of maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max) and a shorter test of maximal treadmill speed (Vmax) during treadmill roller skiing utilizing the G3 skating technique. The men attained 17% higher speeds during both the VO2max and the Vmax tests (P &lt; 0.05 in both cases), differences that were reduced to 9% upon normalization for fat-free body mass. Furthermore, the men exhibited 14 and 7% higher VO2max relative to total and fat-free body mass, respectively (P &lt; 0.05 in both cases). The gross efficiency was similar for both gender groups. At the same absolute speed, men employed 11% longer cycles at lower rates, and at peak speed, 21% longer cycle lengths (P &lt; 0.05 in all cases). The current study documents approximately 5% larger gender differences in performance and VO2max than those reported for comparable endurance sports. These differences reflect primarily the higher VO2max and lower percentage of body fat in men, since no gender differences in the ability to convert metabolic rate into work rate and speed were observed. With regards to kinematics, the gender difference in performance was explained by cycle length, not by cycle rate.

Poling is considered to make a significant contribution to cross-country skiing with the skating technique. To better understand this contribution, the current investigation compared roller ski skating on a treadmill with the so-called G3 skating technique with (G3-P) and without poling (G3-NP). Seven male elite skiers performed 5-min submaximal tests at 8, 12, and 15 km h(-1), as well as an incremental test to exhaustion with both techniques on a 5 % incline. Ventilatory variables were assessed by open-circuit indirect calorimetry and three-dimensional kinematics analyzed using the Qualisys Pro Reflex system. G3-P was associated with approximately 15 % higher peak velocity and 10 % higher peak oxygen uptake than G3-NP in the incremental test (both P < 0.01). All ventilatory variables, as well as heart rate and blood lactate concentration were lower with G3-P as compared to G3-NP at 12 and 15 km h(-1) (all P < 0.01). Gross efficiency (i.e., the ratio of work rate to metabolic rate) at 12 km h(-1) was higher in G3-P (14.9 %) than G3-NP (13.5 %) (P < 0.01). Moreover, with G3-P cycle time and length were both 30 % longer, with correspondingly reduced cycle rates (all P < 0.01). In addition, the ski gliding and swing phases were longer and the angle between the skis smaller with G3-P (both P < 0.01), whereas the push-off time was independent of technique and velocity. Taken together, these results indicate that poling makes an important contribution to propulsion and velocity during ski skating, specifically by enhancing peak oxygen uptake, skiing efficiency and associated biomechanical variables.

This investigation was designed to analyze the time-trial (STT) in an international cross-country skiing sprint skating competition for (1) overall STT performance and relative contributions of time spent in different sections of terrain, (2) work rate and kinematics on uphill terrain, and (3) relationships to physiological and kinematic parameters while treadmill roller ski skating. Total time and times in nine different sections of terrain by 12 world-class male sprint skiers were determined, along with work rate and kinematics for one specific uphill section. In addition, peak oxygen uptake (VO_2peak), gross efficiency (GE), peak speed (V_peak), and kinematics in skating were measured. Times on the last two uphill and two final flat sections were correlated to overall STT performance (r = ~-0.80, P < 0.001). For the selected uphill section, speed was correlated to cycle length (r = -0.75, P < 0.01) and the estimated work rate was approximately 160% of peak aerobic power. VO_2peak, GE, V_peak, and peak cycle length were all correlated to STT performance (r = ~-0.85, P < 0.001). More specifically, VO_2peak and GE were correlated to the last two uphill and two final flat section times, whereas V_peak and peak cycle length were correlated to times in all uphill, flat, and curved sections except for the initial section (r = ~-0.80, P < 0.01). Performances on uphill and flat terrain in the latter part were the most significant determinants of overall STT performance. Peak oxygen uptake, efficiency, peak speed, and peak cycle length were strongly correlated to overall STT performance, as well as to performance in different sections of the race.

The present study investigated metabolic rate (MR) and gross efficiency (GE) at moderate and high work rates, and the relationships to gross kinematics and physical characteristics in elite cross-country skiers. Eight world class (WC) and eight national level (NL) male sprint cross-country skiers performed three 5-min stages using the skating G3 technique, whilst roller skiing on a treadmill. GE was calculated by dividing work rate by MR. Work rate was calculated as the sum of power against gravity and frictional rolling forces. Metabolic rate was calculated using gas exchange and blood lactate values. Gross kinematics, i.e. cycle length (CL) and cycle rate (CR), were measured by video analysis. Furthermore, the skiers were tested for time to exhaustion (TTE), peak oxygen uptake (VO_2peak), and maximal speed (V_max) on the treadmill, and maximal strength in the laboratory. Individual performance level in sprint skating was determined by FIS points. WC skiers did not differ in aerobic MR, but showed lower anaerobic MR and higher GE than NL skiers at a given speed (all P < 0.05). Moreover, WC skiers skated with longer CL and had higher V_max and TTE (all P < 0.05). In conclusion, the present study shows that WC skiers are more efficient than NL skiers, and it is proposed that this might be due to a better technique and to technique-specific power.

Increased hematocrit (Hct) attributable to splenic contraction accompanies human apneic diving or apnea with face immersion. Apnea also causes heart rate reduction and peripheral vasoconstriction, i.e., a cardiovascular diving response, which is augmented by face immersion. The aim was to study the role of apnea and facial immersion in the initiation of the hematological response and to relate this to the cardiovascular diving response and its oxygen conservation during repeated apneas. Seven male volunteers performed two series of five apneas of fixed near-maximal duration: one series in air (A) and the other with facial immersion in 10°C water (FIA). Apneas were spaced by 2 min and series by 20 min of rest. Venous blood samples, taken before and after each apnea, were analysed for Hct, hemoglobin concentration (Hb), lactic acid, blood gases and pH. Heart rate, skin capillary blood flow and arterial oxygen saturation were continuously measured non-invasively. A transient increase of Hct and Hb by approximately 4% developed progressively across both series. As no increase of the response resulted with face immersion, we concluded that the apnea, or its consequences, is the major stimulus evoking splenic contraction. An augmented cardiovascular diving response occurred during FIA compared to A. Arterial oxygen saturation remained higher, venous oxygen stores were more depleted and lactic acid accumulation was higher across the FIA series, indicating oxygen conservation with the more powerful diving response. This study shows that the hematological response is not involved in causing the difference in oxygen saturation between apnea and apnea with face immersion

Diving mammals may enhance dive duration by injecting extra erythrocytes into the circulation by spleen contraction. This mechanism may also be important for apneic duration in humans. We studied the speed and magnitude of spleen volume changes evoked by serial apneas, and the associated changes in hematocrit (Hct) and hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, diving response and apneic duration. Three maximal apneas separated by 2 min rest elicited spleen contraction in all ten subjects, by a mean of 49 (27) ml (18%; P<0.001). During the same period, Hct and Hb rose by 2.2 and 2.4% respectively (P<0.01 and P<0.001), and apneic duration rose by 20 s (22% P<0.05). The mean heart rate reduction of the diving response was 15%, which remained the same throughout the apnea series. While the diving response was completely reversed between the apneas, spleen size was not recovered until 8–9 min after the final apnea corresponding with recovery of Hct and Hb. Thus, although the spleen contraction may be associated with the cardiovascular diving response, it is likely to be triggered by different mechanisms, and it may remain activated between dives spaced by short pauses. The two adjustments may provide a fast, quickly reversed, and a slow, but long-lasting, way of shifting to a diving mode in humans