Physiological Analysis of Physically Well-trained Middle-aged and Old Athletes

Journal/Book: Acta Medica Scandinavica. Vol. 179 fasc. 5 1966. 1966;

Abstract: From the Department of Clinical Physiology University of Göteborg Göteborg and the Department of Physiology Kungl. Gymnastiska Centralinstitutet Stockholm Sweden Submitted for publication July 2 7 1965. Summary 1. Thirty-three healthy males age range 42-68 years selected from a group of extremely well-trained and still active long distance runners have been studied regarding aerobic work capacity related dimensions dynamic spirometry and by electrocardiogram recordings at rest during and after exercise. 2. Aerobic work capacity averaged for the age groups 42-49 years 3.98 l/min 50-59 years 3.39 I/min and 61-68 years 2.68 l/min and in ml/kg x min 57 53 and 43 respectively. 3. Heart volume in relation to maximal oxygen uptake compared with a group of healthy young males was significantly larger in this group of still active middle-aged and old athletes. 4. There was no difference in the relationship of red cell volume to maximal oxygen uptake between the present group of athletes and younger controls. 5. Dynamic spirometry showed larger FEV1 0 and MVVF than predicted. 6. ST-depressions were fairly common in the ECG after maximal exercise. Among the arrhythmias noted there was Wenchebach heartblock in two athletes with intense training and high aerobic work capacity. 7. Cholesterol in serum was not different from normal values in this age but neutral fat was lower than the normal mean values in most athletes. The athletes had a lean body build. ___MH

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