The purpose of this study was to determine: (1) whether damage to liver and skeletal muscles occurs during a 100 km run; (2) whether the metabolic response to extreme exertion is related to the age or running speed of the participant; (3) whether it is possible to determine the optimal running speed and distance for long-distance runners’ health by examining biochemical parameters in venous blood. Fourteen experienced male amateur ultra-marathon runners, divided into two age groups, took part in a 100 km run. Blood samples for liver and skeletal muscle damage indexes were collected from the ulnar vein just before the run, after 25, 50, 75 and 100 km, and 24 hours after termination of the run. A considerable increase in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) was observed with the distance covered (p < 0.05), which continued during recovery. An increase in the mean values of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK) and C-reactive protein (CRP) (p < 0.05) was observed with each sequential course. The biggest differences between the age groups were found for the activity of liver enzymes and LDH after completing 75 km as well as after 24 hours of recovery. It can be concluded that the response to extreme exertion deteriorates with age in terms of the active movement apparatus.
Introduction. Together with longer human lives, increase in economy level and higher social expectations, there is also need for developing science studies on physical culture and its role in prevention of ageing. Taking care of physical fitness is one of the main factor that guarantees both health and high quality life for millions of older people. The purpose of this article was to determine the changes of physical fitness level under the influence of Nordic walking trainingin women aged 60-75 years. Material and methods. 65 women aged 60-75 years were the subject of this study. Women were divided into 2 groups: control group (26 people) and experimental group (39 people). Women from experimental group were taking part in Nordic walking training for 15 weeks, 2 times a week, 60 minutes each meeting. To determine the level of physical fitness some trials from EUROFIT test for adults were applied and march test 2 km was held. Results. The trend of improvement of physical fitness under health education and Nordic walking training was determined. The best results was on endurance field (statistically significant p<0.05). It was also observed slight decrease in physical fitness in women that didn't take part in mentioned training.