This study explored the effects of a Basic Climbing Education Program (BCEP) on the anthropometric measurements, flexibility, cardiovascular fitness (VO2max), muscular endurance, muscular strength, and nutrient intake (water, protein, carbohydrate, fat, total kcal) in novice mountaineers.
36 male and 34 female (mean age = 35.5 years, range = 21-61yrs.) participants currently enrolled in a BCEP class were measured for anthropometrics (height, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist, % body fat, % muscle, basal metabolic rate (BMR), and blood pressure), sit and reach, max handgrip strength, max push-ups, Canadian curl-ups, and Forestry step test (VO2max) preceding and following a 6-week BCEP program. A 24-hour dietary recall was issued during both physical testing periods prior to and after the BCEP program. Variables were analyzed using a paired students t-test.
Significant differences for combined male and female data were found in waist measurement (in., pre 31.5±3.8, post 30.0±3.6, mean±std), push-ups (number, pre 21±10, post 23±9, mean±std), sit and reach (cm., pre 31.3±8.7, post 33.5±7.0), right hand grip strength (kg, pre 43.4±13.7, post 41.9±12.3, mean±std), and left hand grip strength (kg, pre 40.6±12.7, post 39.3±11.5, mean±std). Male data only showed significant differences in step heart rate (bpm, pre 35±4, post 32±4.6, mean±std), VO2 (ml/kg/min, pre 41.94±5.5, post 46.4±6.3, mean±std), VO2 age-adjusted (ml/kg/min, pre 39.82±5.0, post 44.23±6.5, mean±std) and protein (g, pre 79.33±45.5, post 110.7±62.0, mean±std). Female data did not show similar significant differences.
Although some positive changes in fitness were noted, the BCEP program alone was not enough to elicit significant changes in physical fitness. Mazamas should evaluate gender differences in response to the BCEP program as well as BCEP’s specificity towards cardiovascular fitness
