Plyometric Training Triathlon
Description
The study aim was assessing plyometric training impact on exercise-related changes in biochemical indices of triathlon athletes. Methods: Eleven triatheletes were divided into an experimental group (n=6), including plyometric training for 8 weeks, and a control (n=5), continuing previous training. In the first study part, all athletes underwent somatic measurements and performed graded tests on a treadmill and cycle ergometer. Biochemical assays were performed 1 hour before and after completion of each graded test. There was a 5-day interval between the tests. After 8 weeks of training, measurements were taken again, according to procedures from the first part. Results: For tests performed on a cycle ergometer, the experimental group showed lower cortisol and lactate dehydrogenase levels 1 hour after the graded test following the plyometric training period. No significant changes were observed in other biomarkers, i.e. interleukin-6, testosterone, myoglobin, anabolic-catabolic index. Regarding treadmill tests, there were no significant changes in the tested biochemical indices, i.e. lactate dehydrogenase, cortisol, myoglobin, testosterone, interleukin-6 or anabolic-catabolic index post plyometric training. Conclusions: Plyometric training included in triathletes' training induces lower change levels in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and cortisol activity after maximal physical exercise (only in cycling). No significant changes were found for biochemical indices in the body's reaction to maximal exercise on a treadmill following plyometric training, including indicators of inflammation, muscle damage and hormonal response. The results demonstrate plyometric training can improve muscle metabolic adaptation to maximum-intensity cycling efforts.