Publication Details
Abstract
This study aimed to assess changes in cardiovascular functional parameters and adaptive capacity among young swimmers throughout an annual training cycle, considering different training periods and sex-related differences. The study involved 116 young swimmers, including 60 boys (11.8 ± 0.43 years) and 56 girls (11.6 ± 0.40 years), from the Andijan City Specialized Children's and Youth Sports School for Swimming. Cardiovascular function was evaluated using the Ruffier index, Robinson index, endurance coefficient, hemodynamic parameters, functional changes index, and adaptive potential. The results demonstrated improvements in physical performance and cardiovascular endurance throughout the training cycle, particularly during the basic and pre-competition periods. By the pre-competition stage, the Ruffier index decreased by 23.1% in boys and 18.1% in girls, indicating enhanced physical performance and cardiovascular adaptation. Endurance also improved, with favorable changes in the endurance coefficient observed in both groups. These findings suggest that systematic swimming training contributes to the development of cardiovascular functional reserves, although the magnitude and direction of adaptation vary according to sex and training period. The observed fluctuations in hemodynamic parameters indicate that cardiovascular responses to training are not uniform and may reflect differences in physiological maturation, individual adaptive capacity, and training demands. Furthermore, the relative stability of adaptive potential and functional changes indices suggests that the participants generally maintained satisfactory cardiovascular adaptation despite variations in training intensity. The study highlights the importance of comprehensive cardiovascular monitoring rather than relying exclusively on heart rate or individual functional indices. Regular assessment of cardiovascular parameters may help coaches and sports medicine specialists optimize training loads, identify early signs of functional strain, and promote safe physiological development in young athletes.