Cardiopulmonary exercise test on a treadmill for a paralympic alpine skiing athlete: case study <br><b>[Abstract in English]</b>

Abstract

AIMS: This study aims to determine the maximal oxygen uptake of a paralympic alpine ski athlete and relate it to this sport that is traditionally recognized as being anaerobic. The test results are presented as comparative variables for the alpine skiing sport. CASE DESCRIPTION: The volunteer was a 38 year old sitting-class alpine ski athlete, who suffered a spinal cord injury in 1994, and is classified as LW10/2 within the criteria of the sport. The test was performed using their own wheelchair on a treadmill at a constant speed. The load was increased 20 W every 3 minutes until volitional fatigue. The cardiorespiratory responses were monitored continuously with an electrocardiogram and gas analyzer. Blood samples were collected before and after testing to measure blood lactate concentrations. The highest load achieved by the athlete was 100 W (mechanical) and 884.07 W (gross) when in the 5th stage, with an efficiency of 11.31% and presenting an oxygen consumption of 2501 mL/min and lactate of 11.1%. Maximum heart rate was 184 bpm and blood pressure, measured 5 minutes after test end, was 115/70 mmHg. CONCLUSIONS: The skier was able to perform the procedure with increasing loads. The test administered required the athlete to learn how to manage her stamina, strength and coordinative capacities. The assessment of aerobic capacity may help with performance during training and competition, as the athletes must focus their attention on a range of demands that together, are largely met by the aerobic system.