Author(s): GÜNGÖR, A., TOPCU, H., Institution: BURSA ULUDAG UNIVERSITY, Country: TURKEY, Abstract-ID: 2688

INTRODUCTION:
The short recovery intervals characteristic of high-level wrestling training and competition require rapid restoration of cardiac autonomic function. Whether short-term post-match autonomic recovery differs between lower and higher weight category wrestlers remains unclear. This study compared cardiac autonomic responses during passive recovery following a simulated maximal wrestling match in highly trained wrestlers from different weight categories.
METHODS:
Sixteen young male wrestlers (mean age: 20.3 ± 2.1 years), each with at least five years of competitive experience, participated in the study. Eight competed in lower weight categories (57, 61, 65, and 70 kg) and eight in higher weight categories (74, 79, 86, and 92 kg). Heart rate variability (HRV) was recorded during a 10-minute pre-exercise and a 10-minute passive recovery period after a simulated maximal wrestling match. All measurements of subjects were taken in the supine position using a V800 HR monitor and an H10 Bluetooth chest strap. Time-domain HRV parameters were analyzed using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA.
RESULTS:
Significant group × time interactions were observed for the root mean square of the successive differences of the RR intervals (RMSSD) and standard deviation of normal R-R intervals (SDNN) (p < 0.05), with lower weight category wrestlers showing higher values during recovery than higher weight category wrestlers. For mean RR, a significant main effect of time was detected (p < 0.05), while neither the group effect nor the interaction reached significance (p > 0.05).
CONCLUSION:
These findings indicate a more pronounced cardiac-parasympathetic reactivation in lower weight category wrestlers during short-term passive recovery. In conclusion, longer inter-bout recovery intervals may be considered for higher weight category wrestlers during high-intensity matches or technical-tactical training to optimize autonomic recovery and sustain performance.
This presentation was supported by TÜBİTAK 2224-A International Scientific Events Participation Support Programme (Application No: 1919B022602369).