Objectives This study studied how multiple cross-country ski races affect respiratory function and symptoms in different age groups. Methods Eighteen = 19 and 18 = 18 years of age skiers performed morning spirometry, post-race/training spirometry and recorded respiratory symptoms daily over a National Championship (baseline day, 3 races and 2 training days). Results Races decreased resting spirometry and a rest day increased spirometry in both groups. Overall resting maximal mean decline was 4.6 ± 8.8%; 2.5 ± 8.2% for forced expiratory flow in 1 second (FEV1) and 6.3 ± 2.7%; 4.5 ± 2.7% forced vital capacity (FVC) in = 19 and = 18 aged skiers respectively. FEV1 decreased in 50% of skiers post-race, mean symptoms were 3.3 ± 0.5 (= 18 yrs); and 2.5 ± 0.5 (= 19 yrs). Post-race cough (86%) was most common symptom. Conclusions Multiple races reduced resting function, especially FVC in both age groups. Greater cough and decreased function in FEV1 pre-post-race in older skiers indicate potential age-related change. This study is the first to show how multiple ski races affect respiratory function and symptoms cumulatively.
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