Laboratory Assessment of Aerobic and Anaerobic Performance in Elite Greco-Roman Wrestlers: A Case Series Using the Wingate Anaerobic Test and Graded Exercise Testing
Abstract
Purpose: Greco-Roman wrestling demands a complex interplay of aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. The purpose of this study was to conduct a comprehensive laboratory assessment of both aerobic and anaerobic performance capacities in elite Greco-Roman wrestlers using standardized ergometric protocols.
Methods: Three elite male Greco-Roman wrestlers (heavyweight division, body mass 99-100 kg) competing at the national and international level underwent physiological testing at a national sports science laboratory. Aerobic capacity was assessed via a graded exercise test (GXT) on a treadmill ergometer with continuous breath-by-breath gas exchange analysis and post-exercise blood lactate measurement. Anaerobic performance was evaluated using a 30-second Wingate anaerobic test (WAnT) on a mechanically braked cycle ergometer.
Results: Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) ranged from 46 to 63 ml/min/kg. Notably, Athlete A exhibited a VO2max of 63 ml/min/kg, a value more characteristic of endurance-trained athletes than heavyweight combat sport competitors. His anaerobic threshold (AnT), identified via the onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA) method, occurred at 73% of VO2max (4.6 L/min). Peak anaerobic power (MAP) during the WAnT ranged from 1333 to 1652 W (13.46-16.52 W/kg), while mean anaerobic power ranged from 748 to 822 W (7.48-8.22 W/kg). Post-exercise peak blood lactate concentrations were 11.48-12.83 mmol/L.
Conclusion: The findings demonstrate considerable inter-individual variability in both aerobic and anaerobic capacities among elite heavyweight Greco-Roman wrestlers. The exceptionally high VO2max observed in Athlete A underscores that elite wrestling performance may be supported by aerobic capacities well above previously reported norms for this weight class. The relatively low AnT as a percentage of VO2max suggests that targeted training to elevate the lactate threshold could yield further performance improvements. Training zone recommendations based on individualized physiological profiling are presented.