From parturition to marathon: a 16-wk study of an elite runner

Med Sci Sports Exerc. 1993 Jun;25(6):673-7.

Abstract

This study monitored a 34-yr-old distance runner for 16 wk immediately postparturition, as she trained for the 1992 United States Olympic Marathon Trials. Weight (WT), percent fat (%FAT), aerobic power (VO2max), and energy intake/expenditure were evaluated 4, 8, 12, and 16 wk post-parturition. WT declined steadily throughout the investigation, while %FAT decreased through the first 12 wk. Minimal changes in VO2max (4 wk; 52.2 ml.kg-1.min-1 to 16 wk: 55.3 ml.kg-1.min-1) occurred; however, there were substantial changes in oxygen uptake at the lactate threshold (VO2-LT) and at the onset of blood lactate accumulation (VO2-OBLA). VO2-LT increased from 35.6 ml.kg-1.min-1 at 4 wk to 43.5 ml.kg-1.min-1 at 8 wk. VO2-OBLA increased from 40.1 ml.kg-1.min-1 at 4 wk to 51.2 ml.kg-1.min-1 at 8 wk. VO2-LT and VO2-OBLA did not change during the final 8 wk of training. Energy intake was consistently below energy expenditure. No physical or medical complications were encountered during training. This subject was able to improve VO2-LT and VO2-OBLA through high-intensity training without compromising her health. The evidence indicates that well-trained female athletes, while under physician care, may participate in rigorous physical activity soon after pregnancy.

MeSH terms

  • Adipose Tissue / anatomy & histology
  • Adult
  • Body Composition
  • Body Mass Index
  • Body Weight
  • Energy Intake
  • Energy Metabolism
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lactates / blood
  • Monitoring, Physiologic
  • Oxygen Consumption / physiology
  • Physical Education and Training
  • Physical Endurance
  • Postpartum Period*
  • Running / physiology*

Substances

  • Lactates