Natural sunlight (heliotherapy) causes an increase of endurance capacity in average trained persons

Author(s): Kneist, W., Schmitt, H.

Journal/Book: Physikalische Medizin Rehabilitationsmedizin Kurortmedizin. 1993; 3/4: 95-99.

Abstract: Objective: Artificial UV radiation has a positive effect an endurance capacity; several experimental studies have proved this. Based an these results, the conclusion is discussed that UV radiation induces the same metabolic effects as endurance training. Additionally there is no knowledge about the use of natural sunlight and training effects.Subject: The goal of this study was therefore to quantify the improvement of aerobic performance by heliotherapy. Especially the metabolic effects were investigated.Design: The study was conducted during a natural heliotherapy lasting 3 weeks, in Davos. 53 patients with atopic neurodermatitis participated. The patients were randomized and put into therapy groups: Under otherwise similar therapeutical conditions, the patients of the "sun-group" (n = 32) spent an average of 19.3 hours in the sun, the patients of the control group (n - 21) only 5.7 hours. At the beginning and at the end of the therapy, the increase of endurance capacity was measured using bicycle ergometry, measuring Parameters among others were pulse rate and lactate level. Other activities like sports an their own were taken down in a diary.Results: Concerning the lactate values, the results show a significant increase of endurance capacity in the "sun-group" in comparison with the control group (0.5 mmol/1, p < 0.01) at the same load. The difference of the pulse rate was 3 /min (n. s.)Conclusion: A slight increase of endurance capacity, especially an adaptation of muscle metabolism, after a three-week heliotherapy was proven. This increase of capacity can be reached not only by artificial radiation but also by natural heliotherapy.

Keyword(s): Heliotherapie

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