Effects of a period without mandatory physical training on maximum oxygen uptake and anthropometric parameters in naval cadets

Abstract

The effects of a period without physical training on the civilian population are well established. However, no studies show the effects of a period without mandatory physical training on maximum oxygen uptake (VO ₂ max) and anthropometric parameters in naval cadets. This study aimed to investigate changes in VO ₂ max and anthropometric parameters after 12 weeks without mandatory physical training in naval cadets. The sample was 38 healthy and physically active naval cadets. The measured variables, including VO ₂ max and anthropometric parameters, were evaluated through the 12-minute race test (12MRT) and the somatotype. Both variables had a separation of 12 weeks without mandatory physical training. A t-test for related samples was used to evidence changes between the test and post-test; effect size was calculated through Cohen’s d-test. Distance in 12MRT and VO ₂ max showed significant decreases at the end of 12 weeks without mandatory physical training (p < 0.001). Likewise, the tricipital skinfold thickness and the endomorphic component showed significant increases (p < 0.05). 12 weeks without mandatory physical training significantly reduces the VO ₂ max in naval cadets. Simultaneously, the same period without physical training increases both the tricipital skinfold thickness and the endomorphic component in this population.