Research on the Physiological Monitoring and Evaluation of Pre-Competition Altitude Training for Zhejiang Elite Swimmers

Abstract

Purpose: The aims of this study were to analyze the physical functions of swimmers and the effects of altitude training through the blood physiological and biochemical tests during the altitude training and comparing individual lactate threshold testing before and after the altitude training, respectively. Methods: Eight elite swimmers took a 26-day altitude training session. The individual lactate threshold test was carried out by the Swedish Monak839E power cycle progressive loading method before and after the training. During the altitude training period, 5 ml of blood of the subjects’ elbow vein was extracted and tested on an empty stomach and in a quiet state every Monday morning. Results: There is no obvious difference in the hemoglobin between the plain and plateau when swimmers first reached. In the second week, the hemoglobin value showed a significant downward trend both in males and in females. The hemoglobin value in the third week has increased significantly and is higher than the level when swimmers first entered the plateau. During altitude training, the serum testosterone value of males and females showed different trends. Compared with the first week, the second and third weeks have a significant weekly upward trend. From the changes of creatine kinase in male swimmers, the highest value of creatine kinase was 731 U/L in the first week and fluctuated within the normal range in the following two weeks. The creatine kinase of female swimmers fluctuated within the normal range of three weeks. There is no obvious change in individual lactate threshold before and after altitude training for both male and female swimmers. Conclusions: The altitude training has generally improved the swimmers’ training ability, however, based on factors such as training years and gender, individualized training programs need to be targeted according to each swimmer’s situation, to achieve better performance.

Keywords

• swimming
• altitude training
• physical function
• lactate threshold