Effect of Exercise on the Physiological Changes of Korean Cyclists

한국 사람의 생리적 변화에 미치는 운동의 영향

Serum electrolyte concentration and body weight were determined before and after exercise for 2h in Korean cyclists. The serum concentration of electrolytes (Na, Ca, Zn, K, P and Cl) was increased but that of Mg was decreased as a result of exercise. The increase of serum K and P concentration was statistically significant after exercise. As the exercise time increased, the loss of body weight also increased due to dehydration and sweat. The loss of body weight ranged 1.0 to 2.3 Kg as a function of exercise time but cyclists showed the exhaustion and muscle fatigue 2h after exercise. As the ambient temperature increased, the loss of body weight was slightly increased. However, frequent drinking water was required because of dehydration and thirst. Although frequent drinking water may reduce weight loss and thirst during exercise, sports drinking beverages simultaneously containing electrolytes and nutrients are more useful to replenish loss of water and electrolytes in an exhausted condition, resulting in the improvement of physical performance.