Effet du jeûne du Ramadan et de l'exercice maximal sur le temps de réaction simple et de choix chez des sujets entraînés Effect of Ramadan observance and maximal exercise on simple and choice reaction times in trained men

Summary Purpose. — The purpose was to assess the effect of Ramadan fasting and maximal exercise onreaction times in young trained men. Methods.— Ten young Karate players (age: 18.5±0.5years, Height: 1.76±0.44m) were testedon three sessions: during a control period (C), at the end of the first week (R-1), and during thefourth ˙ week of Ramadan (R-4). On each occasion, they performed a progressive cycle ergometertest to exhaustion. Maximal oxygen intake (VO 2max ) was determined, using breath-by-breath gasanalysis (metabolic cart ZAN 600). Heart rates (HR) and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) werealso recorded before, during and after maximal exercise. Plasma glucose and reaction times(simple reaction time: SRT, and choice reaction time: CRT) were determined before and afterexercise. Results. — Ramadan observance had no effect on CRT at rest and after 2-leg maximal exercisein ˙ our athletes. The only effect of Ramadan was observed on SRT ( P <0.05). In addition, TheVO 2max , and MAP remained unchanged between the three sessions, this was also associated withno changes on reaction times and glycaemia after maximal exercise.