Journal of Applied Physiology, Vol 56, Issue 6 1472-1477, Copyright © 1984 by American Physiological Society
Ten years of "civilization": fitness of Canadian Inuit
A. Rode and R. J. Shephard
Data on the cardiorespiratory fitness of the Canadian Inuit has been
obtained before and after 10 yr exposure to "white civilization." The
population tested comprises 201 males (aged 9-76 yr) and 143 females (aged
10-69 yr), about 70% of the eligible population of Igloolik (69 degrees
40'N). During direct maximum tests to exhaustion, a higher maximum heart
rate was attained in 1980-81 (194.4 beats X min-1) than in 1970-71 (184.5
beats X min-1); this probably reflects a closer approach to a centrally
limited maximum as the Inuit have become familiar with white investigators.
The Astrand nomogram currently underestimates the directly measured maximum
O2 intake (VO2max) by some 3% in subjects making a good maximum effort.
Comparing the 1980-81 data with results for 1970-71, there has been a 15%
decrease of predicted VO2max, accompanied by a 2- to 4-kg increase of body
mass, accumulation of subcutaneous fat, and a decrease of leg extension
strength, these changes affecting all subjects except boys aged 9-15 yr. It
is suggested that the loss of personal fitness is related to adoption of a
more sedentary lifestyle, particularly the use of tracked vehicles in place
of walking through deep snow.
