Development of maximal oxygen uptake in young elite male cross-country skiers: a longitudinal study.
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of extensive endurance training (15-25 h per week) on the development of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) in boys from puberty. Maximal oxygen uptake was measured a number of times each year from the age of puberty and for the next 6-9 years in seven young male elite cross-country skiers. Mean VO2 max was measured as 76.3 and 80.1 ml kg-1 min-1 at the ages of 14 and 15 years respectively. Despite the fast rate of growth during puberty, maximal aerobic power showed seasonal variations from the age of 14, reaching a plateau at the age of 15, whereas VO2 max (ml kg-2/3 min-1) increased continuously. It is concluded that, during puberty, boys probably attain significant increases in VO2 max when appropriate amounts of endurance training are undertaken.
Ingjer
F
F
Laboratory of Physiology, Norwegian University of Sport and Physical Education, Oslo.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001835:Body Weight; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D010101:Oxygen Consumption / Q000502:physiology*; D010807:Physical Endurance / Q000502:physiology*; D012865:Skiing