CARDIAC AUTONOMIC MODULATION AND PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE AT THE FUNCTIONAL THRESHOLD POWER

Abstract

The objective was to establish the relationship between cardiac autonomic modulation and physical performance of the functional threshold power (FTP_20.95%W.kg^-1). Twenty-nine male cyclists aged 22±3 years participated. The physical performance of the FTP_20.95%W.kg^-1 was 4.3±0.4. A positive relationship of performance with the parasympathetic index (PNS index) at rest, as well as with parasympathetic reactivity and recovery, R² = 0.80, 0.97, 0.96 respectively, p<0.000, was demonstrated. In conclusion, cyclists with higher physical performance had higher parasympathetic activity at rest. As well as greater parasympathetic reactivity and post-P₂₀ recovery. Both the PNS index and the SNS index are parameters to identify adaptation/maladaptation to training intensity, presence of fatigue, monitor and predict physical performance according to functional power threshold in competitive level cyclists. Additionally, it raises a scenario for identification of genetic predisposition to long-term endurance sports.