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Publication AbstractsOver-training parameters in special military unitsChicharro JL, Lopez-Mojares LM, Lucia A, Perez M, Avarez J, Labanda P, Calvo F, Vaquero AFAviat Space Environ Med 1998; 69:562-8 AbstractBackground: Previous studies have shown the diagnostic relevance of the so-called free testosterone/cortisol ratio (FTCR). A condition of over-training might indeed exist in an athlete when at least one of the two following criteria are observed: a) a FTCR value lower than 0.00035 (FT in nmol · L-1 and C in (mol · L- 1 ); and b) a decrease in the FTCR of 30% or more. On the other hand, no previous research has studied the incidence of over-training in special military units as a result of their demanding training programs. Hypothesis: A percentage of recruits of the Spanish special military Unit, "Grupo de Operaciones Especiales", (GOES) might be over-trained. It was the purpose of our study to analyze the effects on the FTCR of an intense physical training program performed by recruits of the GOES. Methods: Before (PRE) and after (POST) an 8-wk training program, respectively, the following measurements were made in 42 recruits of the GOES: hematological and hormonal parameters (FTCR), aerobic and anaerobic tests, and strength and power tests. Results: a high incidence (10 subjects, 23.8% of total) of over-training existed among conscripts, as determined by the absolute criterium of a decline in the FTCR of 30% or more when comparing PRE and POST values. Additionally, over-training was associated with a decrease in performance (i.e. isometric strength, vertical jump, Wingate tests). Conclusions: In addition to some conventional measurements of performance, the FTCR might be used to monitor exercise training in military units, in order to prevent over-training.
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