[Spirometric evaluation of the respiratory system in adolescent swimmers].
METHODS
The influence of swim training on the function of the respiratory system was studied in girls and boys aged 10-18 years in whom a total of 1625 spirometries were done. Measurements included vital capacity, airflow in airways during expiration and inspiration, and maximum voluntary ventilation. Interpretation of the results was based on comparative analysis of age- and height-matched groups of girl/boy swimmers and sedentary controls.


RESULTS
The effect of swim training on spirometric parameters with regard to anthropometric characteristics was investigated with the neural networks method. FVCEX and FEV1 correlated with height, arm span, and dimensions of the thorax. While airflow in airways during expiration was not affected by swimming, parameters defining inspiratory airflows were significantly higher in swimmers who trained regularly for 7-8 years. This finding appears to be due to the effect of training on inspiratory muscles. MVV followed FVCEX values in girl/boy swimmers and controls.


CONCLUSIONS
The results demonstrate that vital capacity and airflow conditions in airways during expiration are not influenced by swim training.
Kubiak-Janczaruk
Ewelina
E
Katedra i Zakład Fizjologii Pomorskiej Akademii Medycznej ul Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, Szczecin.
D000293:Adolescent; D000886:Anthropometry; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012016:Reference Values; D015656:Respiratory Mechanics / Q000502:physiology*; D013147:Spirometry; D013550:Swimming / Q000502:physiology*; D014797:Vital Capacity / Q000502:physiology