Carnitine metabolism and maximum oxygen consumption in young athletes

Abstract

Purpose. To assess physical performance of children doing sports on the basis of carnitine exchange indicators.Characteristics of children and research methods. The study involved 94 young athletes and 37 schoolchildren (Control Group). The researchers studied such indicators as free and bound carnitine, maximum oxygen consumption and body composition.Results. The study noted positive reliable correlations between the level of absolute maximum oxygen consumption and the content of total and free carnitine in the blood. The data obtained may indicate greater aerobic performance in athletes with a high level of free carnitine in the blood, since its sufficient amount provides adequate cellular energy exchange.Conclusion. Thus, studying the state of carnitine indicators and body composition, it is possible to predict physical performance of children and to prevent deterioration of health in children during intense physical exertion.