Lateral Preferences as Possible Phenotypic Predictors of the Reserves of the Cardiovascular System and the Features of Sensorimotor Integration in Climbers

The lateral preferences of the hands, the reserves of the cardiovascular system and the features of sensorimotor integration in mountain climbers as possible predictors of adaptation to extreme factors of the external environment have been investigated. The subjects were 15 climbers of high class (men aged 25.5–62.8 years). We used the following methods: reflexometric technique ReBFB (complex sensorimotor reaction in the model of go/no-go, computer simulation according to Chernikov); the assessment of lateral preferences using the standard samples; the orthostatic test (with the recording of the heart rate and evaluation of adaptive reserves based on the indices of mathematical analysis of the cardiac rhythm in the transition period according to a technique by Riftin). Sensorimotor integration was performed under normal conditions and under normobaric hypoxia. All indicators were correlated with the age and proficiency of the climbers. We observed no statistically significant correlations between age and the reserves of the cardiovascular system in the group of climbers. Reflexometry in normoxic conditions showed an improvement in the orientation of subjects in the sensory flow as compared with the initial level. The sensorimotor integration (as a response of sensorimotor responses) was more stable during hypoxia as compared with the same indices in normoxia. Noticeable correlation was observed between the results of the humeral test and the reserves of the cardiovascular system defined by orthostatic hypotension: the reserves were higher in the subjects with a higher level of left-hand preference. The regulation of the autonomic nervous system is correlated with left-handedness, which results in more effective adaptation to the high altitude in left-handers. The parameter of handedness can be used as a phenotypic predictor of the level of the cardiovascular system reserves in climbers. It is suggested that the factor of hypoxia with small exposure has a stimulating effect on sensorimotor integration in climbers.