Elite synchronized swimmers display decreased energy availability during intensified training

• DOI: 10.1111/sms.12716
• Publication Date: 2016-07-01T15:47:01Z
• Authors: K. Schaal; E. Tiollier; Y. Le Meur; G. Casazza; C. Hausswirth
• Keywords: Elite Athletes; Interval training

Elite synchronized swimmers follow high-volume training regimen that result in elevated rates of exercise energy expenditure (ExEE). While adequate intake (EI) is important to optimize recovery, a number sport-specific constraints may lead chronically low availability (EA = EI-ExEE). This study aimed quantify changes EA, endocrine markers conservation, and perceived fatigue swimmers, during week baseline followed by 4 weeks intensified (IT). EI, ExEE, body composition were measured nine at Baseline, midpoint (ITWK2 ), end IT (ITWK4 ). Waking saliva samples obtained measure [leptin]s , [ghrelin]s [cortisol]s . Fatigue ratings provided daily. ExEE increased 27% IT. Swimmers EI from Baseline ITWK2 but decreased it significantly ITWK4 fat mass, while significantly. was inversely correlated with EA. The significant decrease EA accompanied signs conservation elite swimmers. As associated particular attention should be paid these athletes' phases heavy training.