The Athlete and Adaptation Processes
The continual improvement of an athlete’s performance is based on the optimization of adaptation processes. The primary means of influencing the athlete’s adaptation processes is through training and competition.
Omegawave identifies two types of adaptation to physical exertion: short-term (immediate) and long-term (stable). The transition from immediate adaptation to stable adaptation is based on structural changes in both the functional biological systems and their regulatory mechanisms.
The adaptation process can help increase and improve the functional state of biological systems. Positive adaptation processes are achieved only when training loads are proportional to the adaptation possibilities of the athlete’s functional system. If training loads are not proportional, the athlete’s compensatory mechanisms will be activated. Depletion of adaptation reserves can result in a pre-pathological state—leading to fatigue, stress, a significant decrease in work capacity, and even illness and injuries.
For the reasons stated above, it is critical to carefully monitor the effect of high training loads on the athlete’s adaptation processes.
The autonomic and central nervous systems govern biological adaptation to muscular activity. They regulate the transportation of oxygen and substrate to the working muscle, mobilize energy resources, clear the products of oxidation and control conditions for anabolic processes in muscle tissues. Therefore, a thorough evaluation of adaptation processes requires the examination of the following:
- Cardiac system
- Energy metabolism
- Neuromuscular potential
- Regulatory mechanisms of hypothalamic-hypophyseal adrenal axis
- Regulatory mechanisms of the gas exchange, cardiopulmonary, and detoxification systems
- Central nervous system
- Autonomic nervous system
Performing frequent evaluations will help a coach select appropriate volumes and intensities of training loads, and select appropriate techniques based on both the athlete's current functional state and an understanding of how the athlete has adapted to prior training and competition. This new level of knowledge will allow the coach to better manage the training process so the athlete can continually improve and achieve consistently successful results.