Effects of the maximal bicycle ergometric load test on coordination abilities and functional state of cross-country skiers and biathletes

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of the bicycle ergometer endurance exercise test on the coordination abilities of cross-country skiers and biathletes in the preparatory period of the training process. 12 cross-country skiers and 11 biathletes participated in the study. The coordination test was carried out in the sitting position before and after maximal bicycle ergometer test. Reaction time was registered before endurance exercise test. For the control group, a group of university students ( n = 12) of the same age and with similar anthropometric parameters was recruited. This group did not carry out the maximal cycle ergometer test. We found that time of the first coordination test in athletes was better ( p