Modern sports require adaptogens to mitigate the functional changes associated with intense training loads. Investigating the effects of plant adaptogens on physiological function and autonomic regulation in athletes is a prominent area in sports medicine. Purpose: This study explored the impact of a course of Eleutherococcus on cardiovascular function, autonomic balance, and aerobic capacity in highly qualified athletes. Material and methods: A group of elite swimmers, trained according to personalized standard techniques, received Eleutherococcus supplementation for 10 days. Standard heart rate variability parameters were used to monitor physiological changes. During the experiment, an analysis of the vegetative balance among athletes was carried out. Also, the maximum oxygen consumption among the study groups was estimated using the Astrand method. VO2max was measured during physical work of athletes in the control and experimental groups at maximum power using a bicycle ergometer under submaximal work conditions. Results: In both experimental groups, reliably significant changes in the values of heart rate variability indicators were established. Relative tension of the regulatory systems is noted, which is a normal physiological response of the body to physical activity in the submaximal power zone. It is noted that in athletes who took Eleutherococcus, the body's response reflected stabilization of the cardiointervalogram indicators. This contributes to the strengthening of the adaptive reserves of the body due to the corrective effect of Eleutherococcus on the vagosympathetic balance and the effect on the parasympathetic and sympathetic links of heart rate regulation. A course of adaptogen intake demonstrated an increase in the aerobic capabilities of the body and higher physical performance, which is associated with an increase in VO2max among athletes in the experimental group. Conclusions: The course use of Eleutherococcus helps to increase the physical capabilities of the body by optimizing physiological functions under the influence of physical activity. It is possible to use this plant adaptogen at the training stage of athletes in cyclic sports.
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