[Cardiovascular adaptation as a function of the intensity and duration of training of young women].

Sixteen women (X age = 21.5 yrs.) were submitted to a training program on bicycle ergometer, 3 times a week for a total duration of sixteen weeks. Subjects were paired according to initial fitness level and were assigned a training intensity corresponding to a heart rate of either 175 to 180 beats/minute (GI) or 145 to 150 beats/min (GII). The total amount of work performed throughout the training program was similar for both groups. Following eight weeks of training significant changes in VO2 corresponding to 18% and 19% increases were respectively observed for GI and GII at any given submaximal heart rate. Concomitant increases in stroke volume (Vs) of 11 ml/beat for GI and 8 ml/beat for GII were also observed while no significant change in arteriovenous oxygen difference (a-VO2) could be found. Between the 8th and the 16th week of training no change in Vs could be observed either in GI or GII, although a significant increase (14%) in a-VO2 was recorded in group I. It thus appears that in young women peripheral effects of training may be related to training duration and intensity.