Hemodynamic, cardiorespiratory responses and exercise-induced muscle damage in water and on land in non active woman: case study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of a graded dynamic exercise in water and on land on cardiorespiratory responses and muscle damage. The exercise was performed by a woman who had not been involved in any regular, structured exercise program for at least 6 months before participating in the study. The two graded dynamic exercises were performed on cycle ergometer in water and on land, separated by 1 week, reaching the maximal effort. Oxygen consumption was measured using a Gas Analyser (KB1-C, AEROSPORT), systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured using a sphygmomanometer (Baumanometer) and heart rate was measured with a Sport tester Polar S610. Plasma creatine kinase activity was determined using a commercially available kit (CK-NAC, Bioliquid). Maximal oxygen uptake value on land was 1,56 l.min-1 and in water was 1,64 l.min-1. Maximal heart rate and blood pressure demonstrated a lower response in water. Creatine kinase levels were not alterated in all measures for both environments. Our data suggest that the maximal exercise on a cycle ergometer performed in water reduce cardiovascular workload without risks of muscle damage.