Frederiks, J., Swenne, C. A., Bruschke, A. V., Van Der Velde, E. T., Maan, A. C., Tenvoorde, B. J., Vanrooijen, M G., Mosterd, W. L., & Schiereck, P. (2000). Correlated neurocardiologic fitness changes in athletes interrupting training. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 32, 571-575.

Dutch male marathon skaters (N = 9) interrupted their training schedules for one month. Baroreflex and cardiac factors were measured at days 0, 4, 7, 14, and 28.

There was a significant decrease in maximal oxygen uptake, a modest, but nonsignificant, increase in resting heart rate, and a decrease in baroreflex sensitivity.

Implication. One month of training cessation will result in considerable decline in aerobic capacity and performance potential in trained marathon athletes.

Return to Table of Contents for this issue.