Vol 12, Issue 6

Aerobic Fitness Markers Associated with Post-Paddling Breath Hold Capacity in Competitive Surfers

August 15, 2019 - By 

Authors

Cory J. Greever, California Polytechnic State University
Kaden K.L. Groseclose, California Polytechnic State University
April L. Denny, California Polytechnic State University
Danielle C. Jones, California Polytechnic State University
International Journal of Exercise Science 12(6): 366-373, 2019. 
DOI: 10.70252/AXXD5381

Abstract

Competitive surfing is a growing sport with evolving performance and safety demands. One particular challenge surfers face is the need to endure long breath-holds following bouts of surf paddling. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between aerobic fitness markers, such as VO2peak and ventilatory thresholds, and post-paddling breath-hold capacity in competitive surfers. Eleven male collegiate level competitive surfers completed both a maximal graded exercise test and a simulated post-paddling breath-hold challenge on a modified paddling ergometer. Associations between markers of aerobic fitness and post-paddling breath-hold capacity were tested using linear regression modeling. The overall regression model indicated a positive linear association between the assessed markers of aerobic fitness and post-paddling breath-hold capacity (r= .828, r2= 0.686, p = 0.035). This association was explained by differences in VO2peak(ß= 0.975, p = .034). These findings suggest that VO2peak may be an important training target for programs aimed at improving breath-hold capacity in surfers.

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