Non-exercise daily energy expenditure and physical activity pattern in male endurance athletes

Abstract

The present study was performed to determine whether differences in non-exercise daily energy expenditure (M_d,ne) exist between trained and untrained individuals. The data from seven cross-country skiers were compared with those from eight sedentary men. Daily energy expenditure (M_d) was determined using the heart rate-oxygen consumption relationship; resting metabolic rate (M_r) was measured using indirect calorimetry. A physical activity questionnaire and ratios of M_d or M_d,ne to M_r were used as indices of physical activity. M_d and M_r were significantly higher in the trained subjects whereas M_d,ne was identical in the two groups. The ratio of M_d,ne to M_r and the data from the physical activity questionnaire showed that there was no significant difference in daily energy expenditure and physical activity pattern during the non-exercise time. These results suggest that the exercise-induced increase in daily energy requirements is not compensated by a more sedentary life during the other daily activities in these trained men.