GENDER DIFFERENCES IN LONG-TERM HEMODYNAMIC ADAPTATION AMONG CYCLIC SPORT ATHLETES

Abstract

abstract. Aim. This paper aims to identify the gender differences of long-term hemodynamic adaptation in successful cross-country skiers. Materials and methods. Gender differences in hemodynamic adaptation were identified in successful competitive cross-country skiers of both sexes, divided into five age groups (9–10; 12; 15; 18; and 20 years). Hemodynamic monitoring was used to assess the following parameters: heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV, ml), end-diastolic index (EDI, ml/m²) during an active orthostatic test, and systolic blood pressure (SBP, mmHg). Results. Female cross-country skiers aged 9–12 years demonstrated superior hemodynamic adaptation compared to their male peers. No statistically significant differences were recorded in fifteen-year-old athletes. Hemodynamic superiority of male cross-country skiers was first recorded after 18 years, whereas female athletes achieve hemodynamic adaptation in cardiac volumes by the age of 18. A statistically significant increase of EDI in male athletes was observed until the age of 20. In both male and female athletes, this increase occurs incrementally and progressively, star­ting with an increase in EDI_supine, followed by an increase in EDI_standing as a result of orthostatic adaptation. Conclusions. The observed gender differences in long-term hemodynamic adaptation can be used for the enhancement of training programs for both male and female athletes.