IS PHYSICAL EXERCISE EFFECTIVE FOR IMPROVING VO2max IN PERSONS WITH SCI? A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Maximum Oxygen Consumption (VO 2 max) is considered to be one of the most relevant indicators of the level of functional ability of the cardiorespiratory system in individuals and athletes. It is an indicator of the functional state, and knowledge of the value of VO 2 max is of great importance in order to improve the functional form for athletes and recreational exercisers, as well as to properly plan, program and dose activities. The aim of this study was to review the literature in order to determine whether physical exercise can improve VO 2 max in people with spinal cord injuries. The following electronic databases were used to collect the papers: KoBSON, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PEDro, DOAJ and Open J Gate. The key words that were used to find the papers are: physical exercise, VO 2 max, spinal cord injury, adaptation, training, effects, patients, intensity, aerobic, anaerobic, heart rate. Based on inclusive and exclusive criteria, eight papers were selected that met the set criteria. Analyzing the papers, only four papers examined the differences in terms of the intensity of the exercise with the goal of finding out which intensity is suitable for improving the VO 2 max value. They have found that the VO 2 max value can be enhanced by physical exercise of increased intensity (HIIT) relative to physical exercise of moderate intensity (LI). Considering the high level of heterogeneity of the scientific papers, the sample of participants, measuring instruments, and experimental research, the conclusions should be taken with caution.