THE EFFECTS OF A 4-DAY MARCH ON THE LOWER-EXTREMITIES AND HORMONAL BALANCE

The functional strength, flexibility, and ranges of motion of the lowe r extremities, as well as hormonal balance, estimated by urinary excre tion of adrenaline and noradrenaline and serum determinations of testo sterone and cortisol, were studied with six physically active army off icers participating in a 4-day march totaling 185 km. Catecholamine ex cretion rates showed cumulatively increased sympathoadrenal stress, an d the effects on serum testosterone and cortisol concentrations were m inor. Also, leg measurements showed no signs of edema, decreases in fl exibility, or decreases in functional strength, Most pain (75%) experi enced by the subjects was located in the feet and caused by abrasions and blisters. Only a small portion of perceived pains (25%) was associ ated with muscle soreness. Serum creatine kinase activity was slightly (ca. 400-650%) increased during the marching days. Thus, soldiers who are in good physical condition and are accustomed to marching are abl e to walk four marathons on successive days, while carrying 10-kg back packs, without any major adverse effects on the musculature of their l ower extremities.