Dynamics and Differences of Biochemical Profile of Athletes in Various Phases of Middle Mountain Training Compared to Sea Level Training

Abstract

Aim. The purpose of the article is to study the dynamics of responses and the current state of the body of highly skilled athletes by indicators of the biochemical profile during adaptation to natural hypobaric hypoxia. Materials and methods. The dynamics of 16 biochemical indicators was compared at similar stages of the annual training conducted in middle mountain areas (~ 1550 m) and at sea level. Fifteen female biathlon athletes of the Russian national team participated in the study. The following methods were used: analysis of morning hematological and biochemical indicators of blood during 3 mid-mountain and 4 lowland sports training events. Training loads were recorded. Results. With a comparable level and type of loads, middle mountain training leads to significant (P <0.05) positive shifts in hematological indicators (hemoglobin, hematocrit), starting from the 2nd and 3rd phases of adaptation. In the same period, the level of cortisol and urea rises. Aminotransferases (ALT, AST), on the contrary, are more reactive in the phase of acute acclimatization (P <0.05). There were no signs of a more significant deterioration in the anabolic support of the training process in terms of testosterone. In middle mountain areas, on average, there is a decreased level of phosphorus and iron and an increased level of calcium, as well as a reduced level of muscle tissue damage compared to training at sea level. Conclusion. The dynamics of biochemical indicators in the middle mountain areas and at sea level is similar, this may be a consequence of responses to the load. At the same time, training in the middle mountain areas has a high physiological cost with positive changes in oxygen transport systems. The obtained dynamics and differences in the studied indicators in the phases of middle mountain training can be used to improve the training loads of athletes in cyclic sports.