THE DIAGNOSTIC SIGNIFICANCE OF PROTEIN METABOLISM MARKERS IN ASSESSING ATHLETIC ADAPTATION TO HIGH-INTENSITY TRAINING IN ELITE SPORTS

Abstract

Aim. This study employs a comparative analysis of blood protein metabolism markers between elite athletes in acyclic/dynamic sports and non-professional athletes to identify determinants of peak athletic performance. Materials and methods. The study involved 57 participants stratified into three groups: professional weightlifters (n = 20), professional handball players (n = 27), and amateur athletes (n = 10). These disciplines were selected for their dependence on muscle strength and speed. Therefore, protein metabolism markers serve as reliable indicators of anabolic activity, nutritional adequacy, recovery efficiency, and exercise tolerance. Professional athletes completed 10–12 weekly training sessions (2 hours/session, high-intensity training). Amateur athletes trained 1–2 times weekly (1.5–2 hours/session, low-intensity training). Fasting venous blood samples were collected in the morning post-12-hour rest over one month. Biochemical analysis included total protein, albumin, creatinine, urea, hemoglobin, total bilirubin, and transaminases. Results. Intermittent, high-intensity training resulted in mean concentrations of 74–75 g/l for total protein (reference values: 66–88 g/l) and 43–46 g/l for albumins (reference values: 35–50 g/l). These values indicate optimal anabolic activity. The absence of deficiencies confirms that both sport-specific demands and training intensity influence protein metabolism markers. Conclusion. Training intensity significantly affects protein metabolism parameters and serves as a sensitive indicator of exercise tole­rance and recovery status.