Effect of fatigue on the swimming event in high level pentathletes. Epée fencing influence on swimming performance

Aim. Modern Olympic Pentathlon tournament comprises five sport disciplines and extends over long duration. It is likely that the residual effect of prior exercise creates physiological responses that differ from performing each discipline as a distinct event. Purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of epee fencing (EF) on subsequent swimming performance. Methods. Measured parameters (swimming best time over 200 m, rate of perceived exertion after swimming 200 m at maximal velocity; swimming velocity corresponding to the accumulation of 2 mM of blood lactate; swimming velocity corresponding to the accumulation of 4 mM of blood lactate, blood lactate accumulation, respiratory exchange ratio at the velocity corresponding to the accumulation of 2 mM of blood lactate, highest oxygen uptake, time to exhaustion and blood lactate accumulation during swimming at 1.43 m . s(-1)) were assessed at rest and after an EF competition. Results. A decreased performance level appeared in the test session performed after the EF competition. Cause of the performance deterioration can originate from several factors which include disturbance to swimming technical ability and metabolic malfunction. Conclusion. From the results of the present study, a need for an accurate competition strategy and an adequate carbohydrates intake and hydration, throughout the pentathlon competition disputed during one single day, should be considered a relevant aspect for success in pentathlon.