Physiological variables during 10 years of endurance exercise

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Abstract
The reported decline in Physical Working Capacity (PWC)max is from 9-15% during the ages of 45-55 yr. The use of vigorous physical activity to prevent this decline and to possibly protect against fatal myocardial infarction was suggested. The effect of an endurance-type exercise program on the maximal PWC of middle-aged men during a 10-yr span was investigated. Sixteen men, initially 32-56 yr (mean = 44.6), were trained with running or swimming at an intensity above 60% of .ovrhdot.VO2 max [maximum .ovrhdot.VO2] during a 10-yr period. The average weekly running distance was 15 miles (25 km). The criterion for PWC was directly measured .ovrhdot.VO2 [O2 uptake] using the Douglas Bag/Scholander technique. No changes were observed in body wt, resting heart rate (HR) or resting blood pressure (BP). Maximal HR declined 7 beats/min in 10-yr. Pulmonary ventilation [standard temperature and pressure, dry (STPD)] increased approximately 18%. Mean .ovrhdot.VO2 max was essentially unchanged 3.376 and 3.303 1/min STPD. .ovrhdot.VO2 max related to body wt was 43.7 initially and 44.4 ml/min .cntdot. kg after 10-yr. The usual 9-15% decline in PWC or .ovrhdot.VO2 max from age 45-55 yr can be forestalled by regular endurance exercise. The results may have implications for protecting against heart attacks.

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