Physiological effects of tapering and detraining in world-class kayakers

• Published in: Medicine and science in sports and exercise Vol. 42; no. 6; p. 1209
• Main Authors: García-Pallarés, Jesús, Sánchez-Medina, Luis, Pérez, Carlos Esteban, Izquierdo-Gabarren, Mikel, Izquierdo, Mikel
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.06.2010
• Subjects: Adaptation, Physiological; Adult; Body Composition; Exercise Test; Humans; Male; Muscle Strength - physiology; Oxygen Consumption; Physical Endurance - physiology; Resistance Training - methods; Sports - physiology; Young Adult
• ISSN: 1530-0315
• DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0b013e3181c9228c

This study analyzed changes in neuromuscular, body composition, and endurance markers during 4 wk of tapering and subsequent 5 wk of reduced training (RT) or training cessation (TC). Fourteen world-class kayakers were randomly assigned to either a TC (n = 7) or an RT group (n = 7). One-repetition maximum (1RM) strength, mean concentric velocity with 45% 1RM (V45%) in the bench press (BP) and prone bench pull (PBP) exercises, and body composition assessments were conducted at the start (T0) and end (T1) of a 43-wk training program, after tapering for the world championships (T2) and after TC or RT (T3). A graded exercise test on a kayak ergometer for determination of maximal oxygen uptake at T0, T1, and T3 was also performed. After tapering, no significant changes were observed in 1RM or V45%. TC resulted in significantly greater declines in 1RM strength (-8.9% and -7.8%, P < 0.05, respectively, for BP and PBP) than those observed for RT (-3.9% and -3.4%). Decreases in V45% in BP and PBP were larger for TC (-12.6% and -10.0%) than for RT (-9.0% and -6.7%). Increases in sum of eight skinfolds were observed after both TC and RT, whereas declines in maximal aerobic power were lower for RT (-5.6%) than for TC (-11.3%). Short-term TC results in large decreases in maximal strength and especially V45% in highly trained athletes. These results suggest the need of performing a minimal maintenance program to avoid excessive declines in neuromuscular function in cases where a prolonged break from training is required.