Characterization of the heart rate response during biathlon.

Continuous heart rate recordings were obtained on elite American bi-athletes during competitions to provide a better understanding of the physiological demands of biathlon and the strategies used in approaching the shooting range. The findings demonstrate that the average age heart rate during skiing was approximately 90% of maximum heart rate. Heart rates decreased 10-12 bpm over a time period of approximately 50-60 sec during the approach to the firing line. At arrival to the firing line, heart rates were similar for prone and standing shooting averaging 85-87% of maximum heart rate. Mean minimum heart rates while at the firing line dropped to 61-73% of maximum heart rate and averaged approximately 20 bpm lower for prone shooting. The lower minimum heart rates during prone shooting were accounted for by the bi-athletes spending a longer time at the firing line and having a more rapid decrease in heart rate while in the prone position.