THE DYNAMICS OF TRIGLYCERIDE LEVELS IN HIGHLY SKILLED SKATERS DURING AEROBIC TRAINING AT MIDDLE ALTITUDE

Abstract

Aim. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in triglyceride levels among highly skilled skaters in response to prolonged physical activity at mid-altitude during the preparatory phase. Materials and methods. The study was conducted in August 2023, at a training camp situated in mid-mountain conditions (Dombay), at an elevation of 1500–1700 meters above sea level. The cohort comprised 13 athletes, aged 19–25 years, both male and female, who are part of the Russian speed skating team and hold the titles of Master of Sports and Master of Sports of International Class. The participants were divided into two distinct groups. The analysis focused on the assessment of triglyceride levels and lactate dynamics, with biomaterial collected during a standardized, extended cycling exercise session in three distinct phases. Results. The study revealed a distinct pattern of triglyceride metabolism in response to prolonged aerobic exercise among speed skaters during training: a steady increase in lipid levels was observed at the 45-minute mark, with no significant alterations noted at the 80-minute mark. By the 130-minute mark, a significant increase in lipid concentration was observed. Following the cessation of physical activity, a notable decrease in lipid concentration in the blood was observed, with a subsequent significant increase in lipid levels detected 40 minutes post-exercise. Conclusion. The observed changes in triglyceride concentration during aerobic training in mid-mountain conditions align with the principles of energy metabolism, thereby validating the feasibility of such a training approach. The analysis of triglyceride dynamics among highly skilled speed skaters indicates that the rate of triglyceride incorporation varies among individuals, reflecting individual physiological characteristics.