Effect of training loads on the cardiovascular system in strength sports

The article examines the effect of regular training loads on the cardiovascular system of athletes involved in strength sports. Physiological changes arising in response to intense physical activity are analyzed, potential risks and ways of minimizing them in the process of developing athletic skills are considered. The empirical basis of the study was the data obtained during the examination of 90 athletes, students of Russian State Agrarian University – Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy, involved in strength sports, in the conditions of the Functional Diagnostics Center during the period of in-depth medical examination. The aim of the study was to identify the features of cardiovascular system adaptation to training loads in strength sports. The study program included biomedical methods with measurement of heart rate (HR), arterial blood pressure (BP), left ventricular mass index (LVMI), ECG and EchoCG to assess functional changes and adaptation of the heart to loads with the growth of athletic skills. The study revealed that with the growth of athletic skills, adaptive changes occur in the myocardium, arterial blood pressure and heart rate: economization of the cardiovascular system was up to 20%. However, with insufficient control, the risk of myocardial hypertrophy and hypertension may increase up to 30%. The work defines methods for preventing overloads and gives recommendations for the safe and effective training. The results may be useful for athletes, coaches, sports medicine doctors and physical rehabilitation specialists.

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