SPECIFIC FEATURES OF DIAGNOSING CARDIOVASCULAR OVERFATIGUE IN ATHLETES ENGAGED IN CYCLIC SPORTS

Abstract

The diagnosis of cardiovascular overfatigue in athletes engaged in cyclic sports is an important aspect of sports medicine and the monitoring of physical performance. Athletes involved in running, swimming, cycling, rowing, and cross-country skiing are exposed to prolonged and repetitive physical loads that place considerable demands on the cardiovascular system. Although regular endurance training produces beneficial physiological adaptations, excessive training loads combined with inadequate recovery may result in functional disturbances, persistent fatigue, and reduced athletic performance. This article examines the specific features of diagnosing cardiovascular overfatigue in athletes participating in cyclic sports. Particular attention is given to clinical assessment, electrocardiography (ECG), echocardiography, exercise stress testing, heart rate variability (HRV), and laboratory investigations. The article also discusses the importance of distinguishing physiological cardiac adaptations associated with athletic training from pathological cardiovascular conditions