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Abstract

Twenty male volunteers, comprising four distinct sub-samples (S=800m runners; R=varsity oarsmen; M=marathon runners; UT=untrained controls), participated in this study. They were made aware of the potential risks involved and informed consent was obtained. Anthropometric (hydrostatic weighing), physical characteristic and pulmonary function (Collins Respirometer) were assessed by standard techniques. Maximal oxygen consumption was determined on a progressive treadmill run (0.22 m.s⁻¹ every minute; initial speed 2.22 m.s⁻¹) to fatigue. Respiratory gases were monitered every 15 seconds (Beckman Metabolic Measurement Cart) with the four highest consecutive oxygen uptake values being averaged for determination of maximal oxygen uptake. Anaerobic performance (AST) was assessed as the time to fatigue the constant workload treadmill run at 3.52 m.s⁻¹, 20 percent incline. Post exercise blood lactate levels (HLa) were determined as an additional variable in assessment of anaerobic capacity. The M were significantly older than the other 3 groups while no significant differences existed between the trained groups for maximal oxygen uptake values. The S and R demonstrated significantly elevated AST (p