Using heart rate variability to evaluate training in adolescent swimmers, a series of case studies
Year: 2005
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Monitoring the effectiveness o f an aerobic training program has always been a difficult task for coaches and athletes.The purpose o f this study was to use heart rate variability (HRV) and the fatigue index test (FIT) to identify patterns that z^ppear related to overreaching (OR) and overtraining (OT).Members (n=14) o f the competitive Missoula Aquatic Club (MAC) served as subjects.Subjects were between 12 and 18 years o f age at the initiation o f the observation period.Resting HRV and FIT were tested weekly for 10 weeks using the Polar S810i heart rate monitor.Subjects completed weekly training logs recording illness, swim training duration, intensity, physical activities outside swixnming, and daily perception o f tiredness.HRV was analyzed using the Polar Precision Performance Software.A case study research design was utilized.All athletes completed similar training under the same coach.Three basic patterns o f stress response were observed and defined: 1) OT, 2) Effective training (ET), and 3) Under training (UT).Seven athletes were classified as OT showing low mean values for HF-HRV and high FIT values with a small range.Five athletes were classified as ET demonstrating a wide range in HF-HRV and FIT values.ET athletes also displayed moderately high FIT values.One athlete was classified as UT showing consistently high mean HF-HRV values with a small range.UT athlete also d i^lay ed moderately high FIT values.Findings indicate significant individual variability in adaptation to training and overall tolerance o f external and internal stressors.Athletes require individualized training programs in addition to frequent monitoring to prevent OT and promote ET.
Source: The Mathematics Enthusiast
Author: Ann Somerville
Language: English
Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1422321909