Abstract

Here we present an estimation of the oxygen uptake and the energy demands during fencing competitions. It was found that during different competitive assaults, the mean estimated oxygen uptake was lower for female ((=39.6 mL.kg-7.min-1) than for male fencers (Tc=53.9 mL.kg-1.min-9. The average intensity was found to be between 56% and 74% of
with maximal values between 75% and 99% of 1/02,,x. These results confirm the relevance of the aerobic demands in fencing. The energy requirements during an international competition were found to be larger as compared to those measured during a regional tournament, as well as in several training situations. The estimated energy power rat along international and regional fencing competitions averaged 15.4 kcalmin-1 (64.5 kJ min-1), and 12.3 kcal min-, (51.6 kJ min-‘), respectively. No significant differences were observed among fencers of the same gender taking into account the weapon used. From the analysis during competition, we emphasise the individual variability of the physiological response, influenced by different factors such as the individual cardiovascular adaptation, relevance of the competition, round studied, opponent’s level, competitive dynamics, weapons, and competitor’s gender.