Haematological parameters in elite rugby players during a competitive season

Abstract

We assessed haematological parameters and possible modifications in elite rugby players throughout a competitive season for increasing the knowledge of physiological characteristics of these sportsmen. Blood samples were collected from the members of the Italian National rugby team at four consecutive training camps during a whole competitive season. Forty-four athletes were recruited for the first camp, 36 for the second, 30 for the third and 32 for the fourth. Due to turnover of the subjects during the season only 13 athletes could be examined at all four camps, and another six in the first three camps. Therefore, we selected the data of these 19 athletes. Iron and transferrin saturation were stable, whilst ferritin increased at the end of the season. The modifications of the soluble transferrin receptor (sTFR) were linked to those of haematocrit: sTFR increased after training and during the competition period when haemoglobin and haematocrit decreased, and decreased at the end of the season. Haemoglobin and haematocrit showed slightly higher levels during the first part of the season and decreased in the second half, when physical demand was high, as demonstrated by biochemical additional tests. Leucocytes and platelets were stable throughout the season. Haematological and iron metabolism parameters in the elite rugby players examined during a whole season fall within physiological range of values. The variability of the parameters during the season is related to training and competition workload. Reticulocytes and sTFR are the most sensitive parameters for studying the iron metabolism of the athletes.

Effects of zinc supplementation on hematological parameters of high performance athletes

“…The increase of lymphocyte levels due to zinc-supplementation has been previously reported (Baltaci et al, 2003). Yet, another study demonstrated no change of leukocyte levels, which may be the result of different exercise and supplementation conditions (Banfi et al, 2006). Also contrary to our findings, a decrease in hemoglobin and leukocyte levels was detected in judo athletes (Umeda et al, 2008).…”

“…If the exercise is carried out to exhaustion, no difference in platelet count is seen, consistent with a study conducted with elite rugby players (Banfi et al, 2006).…”

“…Hematological parameters were examined in elite rugby players, where it was found that the hemoglobin and hematocrit levels increased at the beginning of the competitive season but these parameters decreased with increased physical demand towards the end of the season (Banfi et al, 2006). In cyclists, a decrease in hemoglobin levels was reported (Zembron-Lacny et al, 2009).…”

Changes in training load, running performance, lower body power and biochemical characteristics of back players throughout a professional Rugby Union season

“…In contrast to Banfi et al (2006) who showed a decrease in red blood cells, hemoglobin, reticulocytes concentrations and hematocrit during the 2nd part of the season in international rugby players. These contradictory results could depend on the TL, because they specified their measures took place after an intensive period of competition.…”

Hematological Parameters and Body Composition of Soccer Players

“…The stability of these parameters is one of the main determinants of good performance, especially in endurance sports such as soccer. 17,18 In this study, the blood count depicted values within the reference ranges. However, some of the parameters evaluated showed significant changes between the periods evaluated ( Table 2).…”