Development of maximal oxygen uptake in young elite male cross‐country skiers: A longitudinal study

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of extensive endurance training (15–25 h per week) on the development of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) in boys from puberty. Maximal oxygen uptake was measured a number of times each year from the age of puberty and for the next 6–9 years in seven young male elite cross‐country skiers. Mean VO2 max was measured as 76.3 and 80.1 ml kg+ min‐1 at the ages of 14 and 15 years respectively. Despite the fast rate of growth during puberty, maximal aerobic power showed seasonal variations from the age of 14, reaching a plateau at the age of 15, whereas VO2 max (ml kg‐2/3 min‐1) increased continuously. It is concluded that, during puberty, boys probably attain significant increases in VO2 max when appropriate amounts of endurance training are undertaken.