Assessment of the functional state of the cardiovascular system of students during a mountain hiking trip

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. In the conditions of hiking trip, a particularly important role is played by the high adaptive abilities of the body, based on the reactivity and lability of functional systems. Of particular importance is the assessment of the functional state of the cardiovascular system of students when participating in a mountain hike. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the effect of physical activity on the state of the cardiovascular system of students in the process of overcoming a mountain hiking trip.

Material and Methods. The study involved 30 students aged 18-22 years old who were involved in various sports at the amateur level. The hiking trip lasted six days and covered 114 km. Canyon SportMaster hand-held heart rate monitors were used to determine the power of the students' cardiovascular system. When overcoming climbs during a mountain hike, the rate of heart rate recovery after physical activity was determined (heart rate indicators were recorded before the climb, at the end of the climb, and two minutes after the climb).

Results. Analysis of the data obtained showed that the power of the cardiovascular system changed during the hiking trip. The third day turned out to be the most difficult day; the level of power of the cardiovascular system on this day was 76% of the maximum. In all subsequent days, the tourists’ cardiovascular system coped with the stress much better. The indicators obtained on the last day of the hike indicate the adaptive changes that occurred in the athletes’ bodies.

Conclusions. It was found that on the first day of the hike the cardiovascular system worked at a sufficient level. In the next two days, there was a decrease in recovery rates and a deterioration in the performance of the cardiovascular system. This is explained by fatigue after the first day, and the fact that the body has not yet had time to work and adapt to unusual loads. Analysis of the last three days of the hike clearly indicates that the body systems have adapted to the stress and environment. Heart rate recovery indicators went up sharply, and the heart rate system worked at only 65% of maximum power. Also, important factors that also need to be taken into account: the weight of the backpacks, the length of the distance, weather conditions, temperature conditions, the psychological atmosphere in the group, equipment, etc.