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Mason J, Starc L, Morin JB, McClelland EL, Zech A. Can the recent sex-specific evolutions in elite running performances be attributed to advanced footwear technology? Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1386627. [PMID: 38807616 PMCID: PMC11130513 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1386627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent improvements in elite running performances across all distances have been largely attributed to the introduction of advanced footwear technology (AFT), which features a curved and stiff plate working synergistically with a new generation of midsole foams demonstrating enhanced resilience and compliance. These recent improvements appear to be considerably more pronounced in women's events, highlighted by improvements in road racing world records by an average of 3.7% (range: 2.6%-5.2%) compared to mean progressions of 1.5% (range: 1.3%-1.9%) in the same men's events. Although there is a growing body of research investigating the mechanisms underpinning running performance enhancements derived from AFT, there remains no explanation for potential sex-based differences in their benefits. We overview the currently available evidence and highlight why the recent direction of AFT research provides a barrier to progress by focusing primarily on male athletes. We subsequently provide our perspective on why women may be benefiting from the new generation of shoes more than men, suggest potential mechanisms leading to hypotheses that need to be further investigated in upcoming studies, and finally propose that factors outside of footwear innovation may have concurrently driven the recently observed performance evolutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Mason
- Department of Human Movement Science and Exercise Physiology, Institute for Sport Science, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Laura Starc
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Strathfield, NSW, Australia
| | - Jean-Benoit Morin
- Inter-University Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, University Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Emily L. McClelland
- Locomotor Performance Laboratory, Department of Nursing & Health Sciences, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Astrid Zech
- Department of Human Movement Science and Exercise Physiology, Institute for Sport Science, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
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2
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Tiller NB, Illidi CR. Sex differences in ultramarathon performance in races with comparable numbers of males and females. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2024. [PMID: 38684111 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2024-0051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
There is a prominent sex-based difference in athletic performance such that males outperform females by 7%-14% in races from 100 m to marathon. In ultramarathons, the difference is often much smaller, leading to speculation that females are "built" for the sport. However, data are confounded by the low number of female participants; just 10%-30% in any given race. This study compared data from two ultramarathons where males and females competed in comparable numbers. There were 116 and 146 starters in the 50 mile and 100 mile races, respectively (52% female). Finish times were compared using t tests or Mann-Whitney U tests, a Chi-squared test of independence examined the relationship between sex and ranking, and multivariable linear regressions examined relationships between sex, age, and finish time. There were 96 finishers in the 50 mile race (46% female) and 91 finishers in the 100 mile race (45% female). The median finish time for 50 miles was 12.64 ± 2.11 h with no difference between sexes (1.2%, p = 0.441). However, the top-10 males finished the race ∼85 min faster than the top-10 females (13.8%, p = 0.045). The mean finish time for 100 miles was 31.58 ± 3.36 h with no difference between sexes (3.2%, p = 0.132) and no difference between the top-10 males and top-10 females (4.4%, p = 0.150). Linear and multivariable regression models using sex and age were unable to predict overall finish time in either race. In conclusion, the sex-based performance discrepancy shrinks to 1%-3% in ultramarathons when males and females compete in comparable numbers. Top-performing males still retain a considerable advantage over shorter distances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas B Tiller
- Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Exercise Physiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Camilla R Illidi
- Clinical Exercise and Respiratory Physiology Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, Faculty of Education, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
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3
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Willems MET, Bray PW, Bassett HM, Spurr TJ, West AT. Effects of CurraNZ, a New Zealand Blackcurrant Extract during 1 Hour of Treadmill Running in Female and Male Marathon des Sables Athletes in Hot Conditions: Two Case Studies. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2024; 9:76. [PMID: 38651434 PMCID: PMC11036262 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk9020076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Four weeks before competition in the 2023 Marathon des Sables, a 6-stage, ~250 km running event in the Sahara Desert, we examined the effects of a 7-day intake of New Zealand blackcurrant extract (210 mg anthocyanins per day) on 1 h treadmill running-induced physiological and metabolic responses in the heat (~34 °C, relative humidity: ~30%) in non-acclimatized amateur female and male athletes (age: 23, 38 yrs, BMI: 24.2, 28.4 kg·m-2, body fat%: 29.2, 18.8%, V˙O2max: 50.1, 52.1 mL·kg-1·min-1). During the 1 h run at 50%V˙O2max (speed female: 7.3, male: 7.5 km·h-1), indirect calorimetry was used, and heart rate was recorded at 15 min intervals with core temperature monitoring (0.05 Hz). The 1 h runs took place 3 h after a light breakfast and 2 h after intake of the final dose of New Zealand blackcurrant extract with water allowed ad libitum during the run. The New Zealand blackcurrant extract had no effects on the female athlete. The respiratory exchange ratio (RER) of the female athlete in the non-supplement control condition was 0.77 ± 0.01, indicating an existing ~77% contribution of fat oxidation to the energy requirements. In the male athlete, during 1 h of running, fat oxidation was higher by 21% (p < 0.01), carbohydrate oxidation was 31% lower (p = 0.05), RER was 0.03 units lower (p = 0.04), and core temperature was 0.4 °C lower (p < 0.01) with no differences for heart rate, minute ventilation, oxygen uptake, and carbon dioxide production for the New Zealand blackcurrant condition compared to the non-supplement control condition. Seven-day intake of New Zealand blackcurrant extract (210 mg anthocyanins per day) provided beneficial physiological and metabolic responses during exertional heat stress by 1 h of indoor (~34 °C) treadmill running in a male Marathon des Sables athlete 4 weeks before competition. Future work is required to address whether New Zealand blackcurrant provides a nutritional ergogenic effect for Marathon des Sables athletes during long-duration running in the heat combined with personalized nutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E. T. Willems
- Institute of Applied Sciences, University of Chichester, College Lane, Chichester PO19 6PE, UK; (P.W.B.); (H.M.B.); (T.J.S.); (A.T.W.)
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4
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Burtscher J, Raberin A, Brocherie F, Malatesta D, Manferdelli G, Citherlet T, Krumm B, Bourdillon N, Antero J, Rasica L, Burtscher M, Millet GP. Recommendations for Women in Mountain Sports and Hypoxia Training/Conditioning. Sports Med 2024; 54:795-811. [PMID: 38082199 PMCID: PMC11052836 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01970-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The (patho-)physiological responses to hypoxia are highly heterogeneous between individuals. In this review, we focused on the roles of sex differences, which emerge as important factors in the regulation of the body's reaction to hypoxia. Several aspects should be considered for future research on hypoxia-related sex differences, particularly altitude training and clinical applications of hypoxia, as these will affect the selection of the optimal dose regarding safety and efficiency. There are several implications, but there are no practical recommendations if/how women should behave differently from men to optimise the benefits or minimise the risks of these hypoxia-related practices. Here, we evaluate the scarce scientific evidence of distinct (patho)physiological responses and adaptations to high altitude/hypoxia, biomechanical/anatomical differences in uphill/downhill locomotion, which is highly relevant for exercising in mountainous environments, and potentially differential effects of altitude training in women. Based on these factors, we derive sex-specific recommendations for mountain sports and intermittent hypoxia conditioning: (1) Although higher vulnerabilities of women to acute mountain sickness have not been unambiguously shown, sex-dependent physiological reactions to hypoxia may contribute to an increased acute mountain sickness vulnerability in some women. Adequate acclimatisation, slow ascent speed and/or preventive medication (e.g. acetazolamide) are solutions. (2) Targeted training of the respiratory musculature could be a valuable preparation for altitude training in women. (3) Sex hormones influence hypoxia responses and hormonal-cycle and/or menstrual-cycle phases therefore may be factors in acclimatisation to altitude and efficiency of altitude training. As many of the recommendations or observations of the present work remain partly speculative, we join previous calls for further quality research on female athletes in sports to be extended to the field of altitude and hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Burtscher
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Building Synathlon, Campus Dorigny, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Antoine Raberin
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Building Synathlon, Campus Dorigny, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Franck Brocherie
- Laboratory Sport, Expertise and Performance (EA 7370), French Institute of Sport, Paris, France
| | - Davide Malatesta
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Building Synathlon, Campus Dorigny, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Giorgio Manferdelli
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Building Synathlon, Campus Dorigny, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tom Citherlet
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Building Synathlon, Campus Dorigny, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bastien Krumm
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Building Synathlon, Campus Dorigny, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Bourdillon
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Building Synathlon, Campus Dorigny, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Juliana Antero
- Institut de Recherche Bio-Médicale Et d'Épidémiologie du Sport (EA 7329), French Institute of Sport, Paris, France
| | - Letizia Rasica
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Martin Burtscher
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Grégoire P Millet
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Building Synathlon, Campus Dorigny, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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5
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Rohrer D. Researcher bias and the enduring gap between the world's fastest men and women. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1360731. [PMID: 38516213 PMCID: PMC10956090 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1360731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Doug Rohrer
- Department of Psychology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
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6
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Berger NJA, Best R, Best AW, Lane AM, Millet GY, Barwood M, Marcora S, Wilson P, Bearden S. Limits of Ultra: Towards an Interdisciplinary Understanding of Ultra-Endurance Running Performance. Sports Med 2024; 54:73-93. [PMID: 37751076 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01936-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Ultra-endurance running (UER) poses extreme mental and physical challenges that present many barriers to completion, let alone performance. Despite these challenges, participation in UER events continues to increase. With the relative paucity of research into UER training and racing compared with traditional endurance running distance (e.g., marathon), it follows that there are sizable improvements still to be made in UER if the limitations of the sport are sufficiently understood. The purpose of this review is to summarise our current understanding of the major limitations in UER. We begin with an evolutionary perspective that provides the critical background for understanding how our capacities, abilities and limitations have come to be. Although we show that humans display evolutionary adaptations that may bestow an advantage for covering large distances on a daily basis, these often far exceed the levels of our ancestors, which exposes relative limitations. From that framework, we explore the physiological and psychological systems required for running UER events. In each system, the factors that limit performance are highlighted and some guidance for practitioners and future research are shared. Examined systems include thermoregulation, oxygen delivery and utilisation, running economy and biomechanics, fatigue, the digestive system, nutritional and psychological strategies. We show that minimising the cost of running, damage to lower limb tissue and muscle fatigability may become crucial in UER events. Maintaining a sustainable core body temperature is critical to performance, and an even pacing strategy, strategic heat acclimation and individually calculated hydration all contribute to sustained performance. Gastrointestinal issues affect almost every UER participant and can be due to a variety of factors. We present nutritional strategies for different event lengths and types, such as personalised and evidence-based approaches for varying types of carbohydrate, protein and fat intake in fluid or solid form, and how to avoid flavour fatigue. Psychology plays a vital role in UER performance, and we highlight the need to be able to cope with complex situations, and that specific long and short-term goal setting improves performance. Fatigue in UER is multi-factorial, both physical and mental, and the perceived effort or level of fatigue have a major impact on the ability to continue at a given pace. Understanding the complex interplay of these limitations will help prepare UER competitors for the different scenarios they are likely to face. Therefore, this review takes an interdisciplinary approach to synthesising and illuminating limitations in UER performance to assist practitioners and scientists in making informed decisions in practice and applicable research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas J A Berger
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK.
| | - Russ Best
- Centre for Sport Science and Human Performance, Wintec, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Andrew W Best
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, North Adams, MA, USA
| | - Andrew M Lane
- Faculty of Education Health and Wellbeing, University of Wolverhampton, Walsall, UK
| | - Guillaume Y Millet
- Univ Lyon, UJM Saint-Etienne, Inter-University Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint Etienne, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France
| | - Martin Barwood
- Department of Sport, Health and Nutrition, Leeds Trinity University Horsforth, Leeds, UK
| | - Samuele Marcora
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Patrick Wilson
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Shawn Bearden
- Department of Biological Sciences, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID, USA
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7
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Hunter SK, S Angadi S, Bhargava A, Harper J, Hirschberg AL, D Levine B, L Moreau K, J Nokoff N, Stachenfeld NS, Bermon S. The Biological Basis of Sex Differences in Athletic Performance: Consensus Statement for the American College of Sports Medicine. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2023; 55:2328-2360. [PMID: 37772882 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Biological sex is a primary determinant of athletic performance because of fundamental sex differences in anatomy and physiology dictated by sex chromosomes and sex hormones. Adult men are typically stronger, more powerful, and faster than women of similar age and training status. Thus, for athletic events and sports relying on endurance, muscle strength, speed, and power, males typically outperform females by 10%-30% depending on the requirements of the event. These sex differences in performance emerge with the onset of puberty and coincide with the increase in endogenous sex steroid hormones, in particular testosterone in males, which increases 30-fold by adulthood, but remains low in females. The primary goal of this consensus statement is to provide the latest scientific knowledge and mechanisms for the sex differences in athletic performance. This review highlights the differences in anatomy and physiology between males and females that are primary determinants of the sex differences in athletic performance and in response to exercise training, and the role of sex steroid hormones (particularly testosterone and estradiol). We also identify historical and nonphysiological factors that influence the sex differences in performance. Finally, we identify gaps in the knowledge of sex differences in athletic performance and the underlying mechanisms, providing substantial opportunities for high-impact studies. A major step toward closing the knowledge gap is to include more and equitable numbers of women to that of men in mechanistic studies that determine any of the sex differences in response to an acute bout of exercise, exercise training, and athletic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra K Hunter
- Exercise Science Program, Department of Physical Therapy, and Athletic and Human Performance Center, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
| | | | - Aditi Bhargava
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Joanna Harper
- Loughborough University, Loughborough, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Angelica Lindén Hirschberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, and Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, SWEDEN
| | - Benjamin D Levine
- Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, and the Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Kerrie L Moreau
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, and Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Aurora, CO
| | - Natalie J Nokoff
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Endocrinology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Nina S Stachenfeld
- The John B. Pierce Laboratory and Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Stéphane Bermon
- Health and Science Department, World Athletics, Monaco and the LAMHESS, University Côte d'Azur, Nice, FRANCE
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8
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Colangelo J, Smith A, Buadze A, Liebrenz M. "There just isn't any other option-so we just have to put up with it": mental health in women's cycling and the necessity of structural change. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1270957. [PMID: 38033654 PMCID: PMC10687357 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1270957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Historically, bicycle riding connoted freedom, independence, and enhanced mental and physical wellbeing for women. Persevering through criticism and moral panic, female cyclists have been competitive since the late 19th century-many earning substantial prize money and prestige. Unfortunately, this progress was not linear in its trajectory and contemporary professional women's cycling continues to be pervaded by structural and cultural challenges, which can have deleterious effects on athlete mental health. Notably, socioeconomic pressures endure, like unstable employment terms, limited team support, and role conflicts. Furthermore, sexual harassment, body shaming, and manipulation may characterize women's experiences with their coaches and teams. Sizable investment gaps between men's and women's teams and competitions often underpin these scenarios of disadvantage. Alongside hindering the development of women's cycling, these adverse circumstances may induce psychosocial risk factors. Within this context, by highlighting sport-specific and sex-specific considerations, the emerging subdiscipline of sports psychiatry can be valuable for protecting and promoting athlete welfare in women's cycling. Raising awareness about extant symptoms, vulnerabilities, contributing behaviours, and systemic issues, can bolster efforts to develop better conditions and care equivalence. To that end, this perspective article draws upon anecdotal and scholarly evidence to provide an overview of psychiatric concerns in women's professional cycling. This informs recommended strategies to improve mental health and advance equality within the sport, which should involve actions from several stakeholders, such as athletes, teams, and governing bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill Colangelo
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Smith
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Anna Buadze
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael Liebrenz
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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9
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Nilssen PK, Connolly CP, Johnson KB, Cho SP, Cohoe BH, Miller TK, Laird RH, Sallis RE, Hiller WDB. Medical Encounters and Treatment Outcomes in Ironman-Distance Triathlon. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2023; 55:1968-1976. [PMID: 37332229 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to examine the injury and illness characteristics, treatments, and outcomes at elite ultraendurance triathlon events. METHODS We quantified participant demographics, injury types, treatments, and disposition for medical encounters at 27 Ironman-distance triathlon championships from 1989 to 2019. We then calculated the likelihood of concurrent medical complaints in each encounter. RESULTS We analyzed 10,533 medical encounters among 49,530 race participants for a cumulative incidence of 221.9/1000 participants (95% confidence interval [CI] = 217.7-226.2). Younger (<35 yr; 259.3/1000, 95% CI = 251.6-267.2) and older athletes (70+ yr; 254.0/1000, 95% CI = 217.8-294.4) presented to the medical tent at higher rates than middle-age adults (36-69 yr; 180.1/1000, 95% CI = 175.4-185.0). Female athletes also presented at higher rates when compared with males (243.9/1000, 95% CI = 234.9-253.2 vs 198.0/1000, 95% CI = 193.4-202.6). The most common complaints were dehydration (438.7/1000, 95% CI = 426.2-451.6) and nausea (400.4/1000, 95% CI = 388.4-412.6). Intravenous fluid was the most common treatment (483/1000; 95% CI = 469.8-496.4). Of the athletes who received medical care, 116.7/1000 (95% CI = 110.1-123.4) did not finish the race, and 17.1/1000 (95% CI = 14.7-19.8) required hospital transport. Athletes rarely presented with an isolated medical condition unless their injury was dermatologic or musculoskeletal in nature. CONCLUSIONS Ultraendurance triathlon events have high rates of medical encounters among female athletes, as well as both younger and older age categories. Gastrointestinal and exertional-related symptoms are among the most common complaints. Intravenous infusions were the most common treatment after basic medical care. Most athletes entering the medical tent finished the race, and a small percentage were dispatched to the hospital. A more thorough understanding of common medical occurrences, including concurrent presentations and treatments, will allow for improved care and optimal race management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paal K Nilssen
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA
| | | | - Kasey B Johnson
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA
| | - Stephanie P Cho
- College of Education, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
| | - Blake H Cohoe
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA
| | | | | | | | - W Douglas B Hiller
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA
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10
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Oberlin DJ. Sex differences and athletic performance. Where do trans individuals fit into sports and athletics based on current research? Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1224476. [PMID: 37964771 PMCID: PMC10641525 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1224476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
There are well known sex differences in parameters of physical fitness/performance due to changes occurring during sexual development. Thus, many sport and athletic events have regulations separating male and female participants. However, the inclusion or exclusion of transgender individuals in athletics has recently received outsized attention despite relatively few cases of transgender athletes. When determining which athletic gender category trans individuals should be permitted to compete in, it is important to understand the level of physical fitness/performance these individuals possess relative to their cisgender counterparts. Unfortunately, there are few studies investigating this topic, and several complications that confound this research. The current review seeks to discuss sex and gender as concepts, review sex differences in fitness/performance and how they develop, and then, consider how current evidence suggests that trans individuals compare to cis individuals. Finally, this review seeks to offer considerations for whether trans individuals should be excluded from sports and athletics, and how future research should proceed to better understand this marginalized population.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. J. Oberlin
- Department of Exercise Sciences and Recreation, City University of New York, Lehman College, Bronx, NY, United States
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11
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Knechtle B, Witthöft A, Valero D, Thuany M, Nikolaidis PT, Scheer V, Forte P, Weiss K. Elderly female ultra-marathoners reduced the gap to male ultra-marathoners in Swiss running races. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12521. [PMID: 37532766 PMCID: PMC10397271 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39690-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies showed that female runners reduced the performance gap to male runners in endurance running with increasing age and race distance. However, the investigated samples were generally small. To investigate this further, the present study examined sex differences by age across various race distances (5, 10 km, half-marathon, marathon, and ultra-marathon) using a large dataset of over 1,100,000 race records from Switzerland over two decades (1999-2019). The study explored performance and participation disparities between male and female runners by employing diverse methods, such as descriptive statistics, histograms, scatter and line plots, correlations, and a predictive machine learning model. The results showed that female runners were more prevalent in shorter races (5, 10 km, half-marathon) and outnumbered male runners in 5 km races. However, as the race distance increased, the male-to-female ratio declined. Notably, the performance gap between sexes reduced with age until 70 years, after which it varied depending on the race distance. Among participants over 75 years old, ultra-marathon running exhibited the smallest sex difference in performance. Elderly female ultra-marathoners (75 years and older) displayed a performance difference of less than 4% compared to male ultra-marathoners, which may be attributed to the presence of highly selected outstanding female performers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Medbase St. Gallen am Vadianplatz, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001, St. Gallen, Switzerland.
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | | | - David Valero
- Ultra Sports Science Foundation, Pierre-Benite, France
| | | | | | - Volker Scheer
- Ultra Sports Science Foundation, Pierre-Benite, France
| | - Pedro Forte
- CI-ISCE, Higher Institute of Educational Sciences of the Douro, Penafiel, Portugal
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Bragança, Portugal
- Research Center in Sports, Health and Human Development, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Katja Weiss
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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12
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Dyches KD, Friedl KE, Greeves JP, Keller MF, McClung HL, McGurk MS, Popp KL, Teyhen DS. Physiology of Health and Performance: Enabling Success of Women in Combat Arms Roles. Mil Med 2023; 188:19-31. [PMID: 37490562 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usac256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The modern female soldier has yet to be fully characterized as she steps up to fill new combat roles that have only recently been opened to women. Both U.S. and U.K. military operational research efforts are supporting a science-based evolution of physical training and standards for female warfighters. The increasing representation of women in all military occupations makes it possible to discover and document the limits of female physiological performance. METHOD An informal Delphi process was used to synthesize an integrated concept of current military female physiological research priorities and emerging findings using a panel of subject matter experts who presented their research and perspectives during the second Women in Combat Summit hosted by the TriService Nursing Research Program in February 2021. RESULTS The physical characteristics of the modern soldier are changing as women train for nontraditional military roles, and they are emerging as stronger and leaner. Capabilities and physique will likely continue to evolve in response to new Army standards and training programs designed around science-based sex-neutral requirements. Strong bones may be a feature of the female pioneers who successfully complete training and secure roles traditionally reserved for men. Injury risk can be reduced by smarter, targeted training and with attention directed to female-specific hormonal status, biomechanics, and musculoskeletal architecture. An "estrogen advantage" appears to metabolically support enhanced mental endurance in physically demanding high-stress field conditions; a healthy estrogen environment is also essential for musculoskeletal health. The performance of female soldiers can be further enhanced by attention to equipment that serves their needs with seemingly simple solutions such as a suitable sports bra and personal protective equipment that accommodates the female anatomy. CONCLUSIONS Female physiological limits and performance have yet to be adequately defined as women move into new roles that were previously developed and reserved for men. Emerging evidence indicates much greater physical capacity and physiological resilience than previously postulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karmon D Dyches
- Military Operational Medicine Research Program, U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command, Fort Detrick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Karl E Friedl
- Biophysics and Biomedical Modeling Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Julie P Greeves
- Department of Army Health and Performance Research (AHPR), British Army, Andover, Hampshire SP11 8HT, UK
| | - Margaux F Keller
- Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
| | - Holly L McClung
- Biophysics and Biomedical Modeling Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Michael S McGurk
- Research and Analysis Directorate, U.S. Army Center for Initial Military Training, Fort Eustis, VA 23604, USA
| | - Kristin L Popp
- Military Performance Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA 01760, USA
| | - Deydre S Teyhen
- Chief, U.S. Army Medical Specialist Corps, U.S. Army Medical Command, Falls Church, VA 22042, USA
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13
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Turnwald J, Sousa CV, Andrade MS, Thuany M, Cuk I, Nikolaidis PT, Weiss K, Knechtle B. Participation and performance trends in short-, medium, and long-distance duathlon. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9303. [PMID: 37291186 PMCID: PMC10250310 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36050-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Participation and performance trends of male and female athletes have been thoroughly analyzed in various endurance sports. Knowing these trends can help coaches and athletes prepare for competitions and may influence their training strategy and career planning. However, duathlon events-consisted of two splits of running (Run1 and Run2) interspersed by a split of cycling (Bike)-have not been thoroughly studied, unlike other endurance sports. The present study aimed to compare participation and performance trends in duathletes who competed in duathlon races hosted by World Triathlon or affiliated National Federations between 1990 and 2021. A total of 25,130 results of age group finishers who competed in run-bike-run duathlon races of varying distances were analyzed with different general linear models. Races were divided into three distances: short-distance (up to 5.5 km run, 21 km bike, 5 km run), medium-distance (5-10 km run, 30-42 km bike, 7-11 km run) and long-distance (at least 14 km run, 60 km bike, 25 km run). On average, women represented 45.6% of all finishers in short-distance, 39.6% in medium-distance and 24.9% in long-distance duathlon races. Throughout the years, men were consistently faster than women in all three race legs (Run 1, Bike, and Run 2) in all three distances across all age groups, and women could not reduce the performance gap. Concerning the age of peak performance, duathletes of the age group 30-34 finished most often in the top three in short- and medium-distance duathlons, whereas male duathletes of the age group 25-29 and female duathletes of the age group 30-34 finished most often in the top three in long-distance duathlons. Women participated less, especially in longer distances, and were constantly slower than men. Duathletes of the age group 30-34 finished most often in the top three. Future studies should analyze participation and performance trends in further subgroups (e.g., elite athletes) and pacing behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Turnwald
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Caio Victor Sousa
- Health and Human Sciences, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, USA
| | | | | | - Ivan Cuk
- Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Katja Weiss
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Medbase St. Gallen Am Vadianplatz, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001, St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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14
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Le Mat F, Géry M, Besson T, Ferdynus C, Bouscaren N, Millet GY. Running Endurance in Women Compared to Men: Retrospective Analysis of Matched Real-World Big Data. Sports Med 2023; 53:917-926. [PMID: 36802328 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01813-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE To determine whether the gap in endurance performance between men and women is reduced as distances increase, i.e. if there is a sex difference in endurance, one can analyse the performance of elite runners, all participants, or one can pair women and men during short-distance events and examine the difference over longer distances. The first two methods have caveats, and the last method has never been performed with a large dataset. This was the goal of the present study. METHODS A dataset including 38,860 trail running races from 1989 to 2021 in 221 countries was used. It provided information on 1,881,070 unique runners, allowing 7251 pairs of men and women with the same relative level of performance to be obtained, i.e. the same percentage of the winner time of the considered race on short races (25-45 km-effort) that were compared during longer races (45-260 km-effort). The effect of distance on sex differences in average speed was determined using a gamma mixed model. RESULTS The gap between sexes decreased as distance increases, i.e. men's speed decreased by 4.02% (confidence interval 3.80-4.25) for every 10 km-effort increase, whereas it decreased by 3.25% (confidence interval 3.02-3.46) for women. The men-women ratio decreases from 1.237 (confidence interval 1.232-1.242) for a 25 km-effort to 1.031 (confidence interval 1.011-1.052) for a 260 km-effort. This interaction was modulated by the level of performance, i.e. the greater the performance level of the runner, the lower the difference in endurance between sexes. CONCLUSIONS This study shows for the first time that the gap between men and women shrinks when trail running distance increases, which demonstrates that endurance is greater in women. Although women narrow the performance gap with men as race distance increases, top male performers still outperform the top women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franck Le Mat
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Lyon 1, Université Savoie Mont-Blanc, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, F-42023, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Mathias Géry
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, CNRS, Institut d'Optique Graduate School, Laboratoire Hubert Curien UMR 5516, F-42023, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Thibault Besson
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Lyon 1, Université Savoie Mont-Blanc, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, F-42023, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Cyril Ferdynus
- INSERM, CIC 1410, 97410, Saint Pierre, La Réunion, France
| | - Nicolas Bouscaren
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Lyon 1, Université Savoie Mont-Blanc, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, F-42023, Saint-Etienne, France
- INSERM, CIC 1410, 97410, Saint Pierre, La Réunion, France
| | - Guillaume Y Millet
- Université Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Lyon 1, Université Savoie Mont-Blanc, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, F-42023, Saint-Etienne, France.
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France.
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McLarnon M, Thornton J, Knudson G, Jones N, Glover D, Murray A, Cummings M, Heron N. A Scoping Review of Transgender Policies in the 15 Most Commonly Played UK Professional Sports. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3568. [PMID: 36834264 PMCID: PMC9964021 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There has been much debate recently on the participation of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) athletes in sport, particularly in relation to fairness, safety and inclusion. The 2021 IOC Framework on Fairness, Inclusion and Non-discrimination acknowledges the central role that eligibility criteria play in ensuring fairness, particularly in the female category, and states that athletes should not be excluded solely on the basis of their TGD identity. AIMS To identify policies that address TGD athlete participation in the 15 major United Kingdom (UK) sporting organisations and to summarise the evidence for each of these policies. METHODS A scoping review of TGD policies from the 15 major UK sporting organisations. RESULTS Eleven of the governing bodies had publicly available TGD policies. Most of the sporting associations drew guidance from the official 2015 IOC Consensus Meeting on Sex Reassignment and Hyperandrogenism, particularly with regard to physiological testosterone levels. Many organisations referenced their policies as a guide for decision making but stated that they ultimately made case-by-case decisions on an athlete's eligibility. Relevant considerations not addressed in most policies included pre- versus post-pubertal athletes, justification for testosterone thresholds, the length of time out of competitive action (if any) for transitioning athletes, the irreversible advantage from male puberty (if any), the responsibility for and frequency of follow up for hormonal testing and the consequences for athletes outside set testosterone limits. CONCLUSIONS There is a lack of consensus among the top 15 UK sporting organizations relating to elite sport participation for TGD athletes. It would be useful for sport organizations to work together to develop greater standardization/consensus for TGD athlete policies, taking into consideration fairness, safety and inclusion in each sport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael McLarnon
- Centre for Public Health, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT12 6BA, UK
| | - Jane Thornton
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Gail Knudson
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Nigel Jones
- Medical Department, British Cycling, Manchester M11 4DQ, UK
| | - Danny Glover
- Medical and Scientific Department, Ladies European Tour (Various), Denham UB9 5PG, UK
| | - Andrew Murray
- Sport and Exercise, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, UK
| | - Michael Cummings
- Centre for Public Health, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT12 6BA, UK
| | - Neil Heron
- Centre for Public Health, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT12 6BA, UK
- Medical Department, British Cycling, Manchester M11 4DQ, UK
- School of Medicine, Keele University, Staffordshire ST5 5BG, UK
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16
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Kelly CPMG. Is There Evidence for the Development of Sex-Specific Guidelines for Ultramarathon Coaches and Athletes? A Systematic Review. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2023; 9:6. [PMID: 36695958 PMCID: PMC9877268 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-022-00533-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is evidence of sex differences in the physiology of endurance exercise, yet most of the advice and guidelines on training, racing, nutrition, and recovery for ultramarathons are based on research that has largely excluded female athletes. The objective was therefore to review the current knowledge of sex differences in ultramarathon runners and determine if sufficient evidence exists for providing separate guidelines for males and females. METHODS This systematic review was carried out in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Three databases were searched for studies investigating differences in elite and recreational male and female ultramarathon runners. Studies were included if they compared males and females and looked at outcomes relating to the performance or health of ultramarathon runners. The quality of the included studies was determined using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. RESULTS The search strategy identified 45 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Most studies were observational in design, with only three papers based on randomised controlled trials. The overall quality of the evidence was low. Sex differences in the predictors of ultramarathon performance; physiological responses to training, racing, and recovery; chronic and acute health issues; and pacing strategies were found. There were areas with contradictory findings, and very few studies examined specific interventions. CONCLUSION The results from this review suggest that the development of sex-specific guidelines for ultramarathon coaches and athletes could have a significant effect on the performance and health of female runners. At present, there is insufficient high-quality evidence on which to formulate these guidelines, and further research is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia P M G Kelly
- College of Medicine and Health, The University of Exeter, St Luke's Campus, Heavitree Road, Exeter, EX1 2LU, UK.
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17
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Millet GP, Malatesta D. Sex differences in human running performance: what about mountain ultramarathon? J Appl Physiol (1985) 2022; 133:1300-1301. [PMID: 36455549 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00506.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Grégoire P Millet
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Davide Malatesta
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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18
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Knechtle B, Cuk I, Villiger E, Nikolaidis PT, Weiss K, Scheer V, Thuany M. The Effects of Sex, Age and Performance Level on Pacing in Ultra-Marathon Runners in the ‘Spartathlon’. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2022; 8:69. [PMID: 35552909 PMCID: PMC9106765 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-022-00452-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Pacing has been investigated in different kinds of ultra-marathon races, but not in one of the toughest ultra-marathons in the world, the ‘Spartathlon’. Objective The aim of the present study was to analyse the pacing of female and male finishers competing in the ‘Spartathlon’ in regards to their age and performance groups. Methods A total of 2598 runners (2255 men and 343 women) finishing ‘Spartathlon’ between 2011 and 2019 were analysed. We selected 10 checkpoints with split times corresponding to important race sections. Average running speed was calculated for each participant and the average checkpoint running speed for each of the 10 race checkpoints. Furthermore, to assess the pacing strategy of each runner, the percentage of change in checkpoint speed (CCS) in relation to the average race speed was calculated (for each of 10 checkpoints). Finally, the average change in checkpoint speed (ACCS) was calculated for each participant as a mean of the 10 CCSs. Results Both women and men slowed down through the first 7 checkpoints but increased running speed towards the end of the race (reverse J-shaped pacing). Men showed a significantly greater CCS in the first and second checkpoint (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively), whereas women showed a more significant change in CCS in the last checkpoint (p < 0.05). Furthermore, age and sex showed no effect on ACCS, whereas ACCS differed between the performance groups. In particular, the slowest and the fastest runners showed a more minor change in ACCS than the two medium groups of both men and women (p < 0.01). Conclusions In summary, successful finishers in ‘Spartathlon’ showed a reverse J-shaped pacing curve with a decrease in running speed from the start to the 7th checkpoint and an increase in running speed thereafter. This strategy was most probably due to the profile of the race course. Men showed a more significant change in checkpoint speed in the first two checkpoints, whereas women showed a more substantial change in the last checkpoint. Age and sex did not affect average checkpoint speed, whereas this speed was different between the different performance groups. The slowest and the fastest runners showed fewer changes in average checkpoint speed than the two medium groups in men and women.
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19
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Liu B, Wu J, Shi Q, Hao F, Xiao W, Yu J, Yu F, Ren Z. Running economy and lower extremity stiffness in endurance runners: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1059221. [PMID: 36518102 PMCID: PMC9742541 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1059221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Lower extremity stiffness simulates the response of the lower extremity to landing in running. However, its relationship with running economy (RE) remains unclear. This study aims to explore the relationship between lower extremity stiffness and RE. Methods: This study utilized articles from the Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus discussing the relationships between RE and indicators of lower extremity stiffness, namely vertical stiffness, leg stiffness, and joint stiffness. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Australian Centre for Evidence-Based Care (JBI). Pearson correlation coefficients were utilized to summarize effect sizes, and meta-regression analysis was used to assess the extent of this association between speed and participant level. Result: In total, thirteen studies involving 272 runners met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. The quality of the thirteen studies ranged from moderate to high. The meta-analysis results showed a negative correlation between vertical stiffness (r = -0.520, 95% CI, -0.635 to -0.384, p < 0.001) and leg stiffness (r = -0.568, 95% CI, -0.723 to -0.357, p < 0.001) and RE. Additional, there was a small negative correlation between knee stiffness and RE (r = -0.290, 95% CI, -0.508 to -0.037, p = 0.025). Meta-regression results showed that the extent to which leg stiffness was negatively correlated with RE was influenced by speed (coefficient = -0.409, p = 0.020, r 2 = 0.79) and participant maximal oxygen uptake (coefficient = -0.068, p = 0.010, r 2 = 0.92). Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that vertical, leg and knee stiffness were negatively correlated with RE. In addition, maximum oxygen uptake and speed will determine whether the runner can take full advantage of leg stiffness to minimize energy expenditure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Liu
- College of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinlong Wu
- College of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiuqiong Shi
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Fengwei Hao
- School of Physical Education and Sports Exercise, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen Xiao
- College of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jingxuan Yu
- College of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fengyu Yu
- College of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhanbing Ren
- College of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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20
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Schlegel P, Křehký A. Performance Sex Differences in CrossFit ®. Sports (Basel) 2022; 10:165. [PMID: 36355816 PMCID: PMC9699255 DOI: 10.3390/sports10110165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
CrossFit® has a unique standard for workout of the day for women and men. Scaling is used to set difficulty levels for women in CrossFit® gyms and competitions. This type of scaling is applied for weightlifting (60-82% of men's load); however, there are usually no differences in difficulty settings for gymnastics and monostructural metabolic conditioning. Performance analysis is essential for every sports discipline, and statistical data comparing men's and women's results from athletics, running, swimming, weightlifting, etc., are available. However, CrossFit® lacks these statistics. The aim of our study was to analyze how the performances of men and women differed at the 2021 CrossFit Games®. Our sample comprised 40 female (age 27.8 ± 5.1) and 40 male participants (age 27.2 ± 3.7) competing in the Rx division. Data obtained from all events were analyzed using effect size and percentage. In 14 out of 15 events, men achieved better results than women. Even with the implementation of scaling, women's results differed by 0.1-33.1% (effect size from small to large). Scaling for women is designed according to general strength and power differences; however, primarily because of anatomic and physiological differences, men attain better results. However, CrossFit Games® events are always unique, and the events rarely repeat; therefore, our study does not provide firm conclusions. As our study is the first to compare CrossFit Games® performance between the sexes, further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petr Schlegel
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Education, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Králové 500 03, Czech Republic
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21
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Tiller NB, Wheatley-Guy CM, Fermoyle CC, Robach P, Ziegler B, Gavet A, Schwartz JC, Taylor BJ, Constantini K, Murdock R, Johnson BD, Stewart GM. Sex-Specific Physiological Responses to Ultramarathon. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2022; 54:1647-1656. [PMID: 35653262 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite a growing body of literature on the physiological responses to ultramarathon, there is a paucity of data in females. This study assessed the female physiological response to ultramarathon and compared the frequency of perturbations to a group of race- and time-matched males. METHODS Data were collected from 53 contestants of an ultramarathon trail race at the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB®) in 2018/19. Before and within 2 h of the finish, participants underwent physiological assessments, including blood sampling for biomarkers (creatine kinase-MB isoenzyme [CK-MB], cardiac troponin I [cTnI], brain natriuretic peptide [BNP], and creatinine [Cr]), pulmonary function testing (spirometry, exhaled NO, diffusing capacities, and mouth pressures), and transthoracic ultrasound (lung comet tails, cardiac function). Data from eight female finishers (age = 36.6 ± 6.9 yr; finish time = 30:57 ± 11:36 h:min) were compared with a group of eight time-matched males (age = 40.3 ± 8.3 yr; finish time = 30:46 ± 10:32 h:min). RESULTS Females exhibited significant pre- to postrace increases in BNP (25.8 ± 14.6 vs 140.9 ± 102.7 pg·mL -1 ; P = 0.007) and CK-MB (3.3 ± 2.4 vs 74.6 ± 49.6 IU·L -1 ; P = 0.005), whereas males exhibited significant pre- to postrace increases in BNP (26.6 ± 17.5 vs 96.4 ± 51.9 pg·mL -1 ; P = 0.002), CK-MB (7.2 ± 3.9 vs 108.8 ± 37.4 IU·L -1 ; P = 0.002), and Cr (1.06 ± 0.19 vs 1.23 ± 0.24 mg·dL -1 ; P = 0.028). Lung function declined in both groups, but males exhibited additional reductions in lung diffusing capacities (DL CO = 34.4 ± 5.7 vs 29.2 ± 6.9 mL⋅min -1 ⋅mm Hg -1 , P = 0.004; DL NO = 179.1 ± 26.2 vs 152.8 ± 33.4 mL⋅min -1 ⋅mm Hg -1 , P = 0.002) and pulmonary capillary blood volumes (77.4 ± 16.7 vs 57.3 ± 16.1 mL; P = 0.002). Males, but not females, exhibited evidence of mild postrace pulmonary edema. Pooled effect sizes for within-group pre- to postrace changes, for all variables, were generally larger in males versus females ( d = 0.86 vs 0.63). CONCLUSIONS Ultramarathon negatively affects a range of physiological functions but generally evokes more frequent perturbations, with larger effect sizes, in males compared to females with similar race performances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas B Tiller
- Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Exercise Physiology, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA
| | | | | | - Paul Robach
- Ecole Nationale des Sports de Montagne, Chamonix, FRANCE
| | - Briana Ziegler
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Alice Gavet
- Ecole Nationale des Sports de Montagne, Chamonix, FRANCE
| | - Jesse C Schwartz
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ
| | - Bryan J Taylor
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
| | - Keren Constantini
- School of Public Health, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, and Sylvan Adams Sports Institute, Tel-Aviv University, ISRAEL
| | | | - Bruce D Johnson
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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22
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Prevalence of Female and Male Vegan and Non-Vegan Endurance Runners and the Potential Associations of Diet Type and BMI with Performance-Results from the NURMI Study (Step 1). Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14183803. [PMID: 36145179 PMCID: PMC9501964 DOI: 10.3390/nu14183803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to investigate vegetarian and mixed diet type prevalences among distance runners at running events around the world and associations with running-related patterns and performance. Following a cross-sectional approach, linear regression analyses were carried out to identify potential associations among body mass index (BMI), diet type, and average best performance times of half-marathon and marathon events for males and females. From a sample of 3835 runners who completed an online questionnaire, 2864 all-distance runners (age: 37 years; 57% females) were included in inferential analyses and categorized into dietary subgroups according to self-reports: 994 vegans (34.7%), 598 vegetarians (20.9%), and 1272 omnivores (44.4%). Significant associations were identified between kind of diet and best average time to finish (i) half-marathons in females where vegans (p = 0.001) took longer than omnivores, (ii) half-marathons in males where vegans (p < 0.001) and vegetarians (p = 0.002) took longer than omnivores, and (iii) marathons in males where vegans (p < 0.001) and vegetarians (p = 0.043) averaged slower than omnivores. Increased units of BMI (+1.0) in males influenced best runtimes: 2.75 (3.22−2.27) min slower for HM and 5.5 (5.69−4.31) min slower for M. The present study did not take detailed confounders into account such as runner motives or training behaviors; however, the results may provide valuable insight for running event organizers, nutrition experts, coaches, and trainers advising runners who adhere to a general diet type regarding the basic question of who participates in running events around the world.
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Lulic-Kuryllo T, Greig Inglis J. Sex differences in motor unit behaviour: A review. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2022; 66:102689. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2022.102689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
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Burtscher J, Vanderriele PE, Legrand M, Predel HG, Niebauer J, O’Keefe JH, Millet GP, Burtscher M. Could Repeated Cardio-Renal Injury Trigger Late Cardiovascular Sequelae in Extreme Endurance Athletes? Sports Med 2022; 52:2821-2836. [DOI: 10.1007/s40279-022-01734-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AbstractRegular exercise confers multifaceted and well-established health benefits. Yet, transient and asymptomatic increases in markers of cardio-renal injury are commonly observed in ultra-endurance athletes during and after competition. This has raised concerns that chronic recurring insults could cause long-term cardiac and/or renal damage. Indeed, extreme endurance exercise (EEE) over decades has sometimes been linked with untoward cardiac effects, but a causal relation with acute injury markers has not yet been established. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on markers of cardiac and/or renal injury in EEE athletes, outline the possible interplay between cardiac and kidney damage, and explore the roles of various factors in the development of potential exercise-related cardiac damage, including underlying diseases, medication, sex, training, competition, regeneration, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation. In conclusion, despite the undisputed health benefits of regular exercise, we speculate, based on the intimate link between heart and kidney diseases, that in rare cases excessive endurance sport may induce adverse cardio-renal interactions that under specific, hitherto undefined conditions could result in persistent cardiac damage. We highlight future research priorities and provide decision support for athletes and clinical consultants who are seeking safe strategies for participation in EEE training and competition.
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Murray AA. Variability and the form-function framework in evolutionary biomechanics and human locomotion. EVOLUTIONARY HUMAN SCIENCES 2022; 4:e29. [PMID: 37588899 PMCID: PMC10426129 DOI: 10.1017/ehs.2022.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The form-function conceptual framework, which assumes a strong relationship between the structure of a particular trait and its function, has been crucial for understanding morphological variation and locomotion among extant and fossil species across many disciplines. In biological anthropology, it is the lens through which many important questions and hypotheses have been tackled with respect to relationships between morphology and locomotor kinematics, energetics and performance. However, it is becoming increasingly evident that the morphologies of fossil hominins, apes and humans can confer considerable locomotor diversity and flexibility, and can do so with a range of kinematics depending on soft tissue plasticity and environmental and cultural factors. This complexity is not built into traditional biomechanical or mathematical models of relationships between structure and kinematics or energetics, limiting our interpretation of what bone structure is telling us about behaviour in the past. The nine papers presented in this Special Collection together address some of the challenges that variation in the relationship between form and function pose in evolutionary biomechanics, to better characterise the complexity linking structure and function and to provide tools through which we may begin to incorporate some of this complexity into our functional interpretations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison A. Murray
- Department of Anthropology, University of Victoria, Cornett Building Room B228, 3800 Finnerty Road, Victoria, BC, CanadaV8P 5C2
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Sex Differences in Anthropometric and Physiological Profiles of Hungarian Rowers of Different Ages. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19138115. [PMID: 35805781 PMCID: PMC9265510 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19138115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine sexual differentiation in the anthropometric and physiological characteristics of Hungarian rowers in different age categories. These characteristics were measured for 15–16-year-old juniors (55 men and 36 women), 17–18-year-old older juniors (52 men and 26 women), and 19–22-year-old seniors (23 men and 8 women). The degree of sexual dimorphism was expressed in units of measurement as percentages and the dimorphism index. In all age categories, females had significantly higher body fat indices. Body fat percentage was determined by electrical impedance and by the Pařízková formula, BMI, and skinfold thicknesses. Males had significantly higher body mass, body height, skeletal muscle mass, sitting height, arm span, lower limb length, and body surface area. Males also scored significantly higher values for the following physiological characteristics: peak power, relative peak power, ErVO2max, jump height, speed max, force max, and relative maximal power. Analysis of anthropometric and physiological characteristics in Hungarian rowers revealed that sexual dimorphism tended to increase with age, regardless of whether it was expressed in units of measurement, percentages, or dimorphism index values. The age-related increase in the sexual dimorphism of Hungarian rowers suggests that training methods should be carefully selected to accommodate the needs of various age and gender groups.
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Motevalli M, Wagner KH, Leitzmann C, Tanous D, Wirnitzer G, Knechtle B, Wirnitzer K. Female Endurance Runners Have a Healthier Diet than Males-Results from the NURMI Study (Step 2). Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14132590. [PMID: 35807768 PMCID: PMC9268557 DOI: 10.3390/nu14132590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex has been recognized to be an important indicator of physiological, psychological, and nutritional characteristics among endurance athletes. However, there are limited data addressing sex-based differences in dietary behaviors of distance runners. The aim of the present study is to explore the sex-specific differences in dietary intake of female and male distance runners competing at >10-km distances. From the initial number of 317 participants, 211 endurance runners (121 females and 90 males) were selected as the final sample after a multi-level data clearance. Participants were classified to race distance (10-km, half-marathon, marathon/ultra-marathon) and type of diet (omnivorous, vegetarian, vegan) subgroups. An online survey was conducted to collect data on sociodemographic information and dietary intake (using a comprehensive food frequency questionnaire with 53 food groups categorized in 14 basic and three umbrella food clusters). Compared to male runners, female runners had a significantly greater intake in four food clusters, including “beans and seeds”, “fruit and vegetables”, “dairy alternatives”, and “water”. Males reported higher intakes of seven food clusters, including “meat”, “fish”, “eggs”, “oils”, “grains”, “alcohol”, and “processed foods”. Generally, it can be suggested that female runners have a tendency to consume healthier foods than males. The predominance of females with healthy dietary behavior can be potentially linked to the well-known differences between females and males in health attitudes and lifestyle patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Motevalli
- Department of Sport Science, Leopold-Franzens University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (M.M.); (D.T.)
- Department of Subject Didactics and Educational Research and Development, University College of Teacher Education Tyrol, 6010 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Karl-Heinz Wagner
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Claus Leitzmann
- Institute of Nutrition, University of Gießen, 35390 Gießen, Germany;
| | - Derrick Tanous
- Department of Sport Science, Leopold-Franzens University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (M.M.); (D.T.)
- Department of Subject Didactics and Educational Research and Development, University College of Teacher Education Tyrol, 6010 Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
- Medbase St. Gallen Am Vadianplatz, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Katharina Wirnitzer
- Department of Sport Science, Leopold-Franzens University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (M.M.); (D.T.)
- Department of Subject Didactics and Educational Research and Development, University College of Teacher Education Tyrol, 6010 Innsbruck, Austria
- Research Center Medical Humanities, Leopold-Franzens University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +43-(650)-5901794
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Tarkhan AH, Anwardeen NR, Sellami M, Donati F, Botrè F, de la Torre X, Elrayess MA. Comparing metabolic profiles between female endurance athletes and non-athletes reveals differences in androgen and corticosteroid levels. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2022; 219:106081. [PMID: 35182726 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2022.106081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Endurance training is associated with physiological changes in elite athletes, but little is known about female-specific effects of endurance training. Despite the significant rise in female sports participation, findings from studies performed on male athletes are largely extrapolated to females without taking into consideration sex-specific differences in metabolism. Subsequently, this study aimed to investigate the steroid hormone profiles of elite female endurance athletes in comparison with their non-athletic counterparts. Untargeted metabolomics-based mass spectroscopy combined with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography was performed on serum samples from 51 elite female endurance athletes and 197 non-athletic females. The results showed that, compared to non-athletic females, certain androgen, pregnenolone, and progestin steroid hormones were reduced in elite female endurance athletes, while corticosteroids were elevated. The most significantly altered steroid hormones were 5alpha-androstan-3alpha,17alpha-diol monosulfate (FDR = 1.90 × 10-05), androstenediol (3alpha, 17alpha) monosulfate (FDR = 2.93 × 10-04), and cortisol (FDR = 2.93 × 10-04). Conclusively, the present study suggests that elite female endurance athletes have a unique steroid hormone profile with implications on their general health and performance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Maha Sellami
- Physical Education Department (PE), College of Education, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Francesco Donati
- Laboratorio Antidoping, Federazione Medico Sportiva Italiana, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesco Botrè
- Laboratorio Antidoping, Federazione Medico Sportiva Italiana, Rome, Italy.
| | - Xavier de la Torre
- Laboratorio Antidoping, Federazione Medico Sportiva Italiana, Rome, Italy.
| | - Mohamed A Elrayess
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Vice President for Medical and Health Sciences Office, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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Commentaries on Viewpoint: Consider iron status when making sex comparisons in human physiology. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2022; 132:703-709. [PMID: 35274549 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00016.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Abstract
In recent years, there has been a significant expansion in female participation in endurance (road and trail) running. The often reported sex differences in maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) are not the only differences between sexes during prolonged running. The aim of this narrative review was thus to discuss sex differences in running biomechanics, economy (both in fatigue and non-fatigue conditions), substrate utilization, muscle tissue characteristics (including ultrastructural muscle damage), neuromuscular fatigue, thermoregulation and pacing strategies. Although males and females do not differ in terms of running economy or endurance (i.e. percentage VO2max sustained), sex-specificities exist in running biomechanics (e.g. females have greater non-sagittal hip and knee joint motion compared to males) that can be partly explained by anatomical (e.g. wider pelvis, larger femur-tibia angle, shorter lower limb length relative to total height in females) differences. Compared to males, females also show greater proportional area of type I fibres, are more able to use fatty acids and preserve carbohydrates during prolonged exercise, demonstrate a more even pacing strategy and less fatigue following endurance running exercise. These differences confer an advantage to females in ultra-endurance performance, but other factors (e.g. lower O2 carrying capacity, greater body fat percentage) counterbalance these potential advantages, making females outperforming males a rare exception. The present literature review also highlights the lack of sex comparison in studies investigating running biomechanics in fatigue conditions and during the recovery process.
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Scheer V, Tiller NB, Doutreleau S, Khodaee M, Knechtle B, Pasternak A, Rojas-Valverde D. Authors' Response to: Comment on: "Potential Long-Term Health Problems Associated with Ultra-Endurance Running: A Narrative Review". Sports Med 2022; 52:957-958. [PMID: 35072940 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-022-01647-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Volker Scheer
- Ultra Sports Science Foundation, 109 Boulevard de l'Europe, 69310, Pierre-Bénite, France.
| | - Nicholas B Tiller
- Institute of Respiratory Medicine and Exercise Physiology, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Centre, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Stéphane Doutreleau
- Sports Medical Unit, HP2 Laboratory, University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Morteza Khodaee
- Department of Family Medicine and Orthopedics, Division of Sports Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Medbase St. Gallen Am Vadianplatz, St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Pasternak
- Silver Sage Sports and Fitness Lab, Reno, NV, USA
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Nevada Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Daniel Rojas-Valverde
- Centro de Investigación y Diagnóstico en Salud y Deporte (CIDISAD), Escuela Ciencias del Movimiento Humano y Calidad de Vida (CIEMHCAVI), Universidad Nacional, Heredia, Costa Rica
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Nassis GP, Brito J, Tomás R, Heiner-Møller K, Harder P, Kryger KO, Krustrup P. Elite women's football: Evolution and challenges for the years ahead. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2021; 32 Suppl 1:7-11. [PMID: 34882847 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- George P Nassis
- Physical Education Department, College of Education (CEDU), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.,Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Faculty of Health Sciences, SDU Sport and Health Sciences Cluster (SHSC), University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - João Brito
- Portugal Football School, Portuguese Football Federation, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Rita Tomás
- Portugal Football School, Portuguese Football Federation, Oeiras, Portugal
| | | | | | - Katrine Okholm Kryger
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Faculty of Health Sciences, SDU Sport and Health Sciences Cluster (SHSC), University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Faculty of Sport, Allied Health and Performance Science, St Mary's University, Twickenham, London, UK.,Sports and Exercise Medicine, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Peter Krustrup
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Faculty of Health Sciences, SDU Sport and Health Sciences Cluster (SHSC), University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Danish Institute for Advanced Study (DIAS), University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,College of Sport Health Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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Skelly LE, Bailleul C, Gillen JB. Physiological Responses to Low-Volume Interval Training in Women. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2021; 7:99. [PMID: 34940959 PMCID: PMC8702506 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-021-00390-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Interval training is a form of exercise that involves intermittent bouts of relatively intense effort interspersed with periods of rest or lower-intensity exercise for recovery. Low-volume high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and sprint interval training (SIT) induce physiological and health-related adaptations comparable to traditional moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) in healthy adults and those with chronic disease despite a lower time commitment. However, most studies within the field have been conducted in men, with a relatively limited number of studies conducted in women cohorts across the lifespan. This review summarizes our understanding of physiological responses to low-volume interval training in women, including those with overweight/obesity or type 2 diabetes, with a focus on cardiorespiratory fitness, glycemic control, and skeletal muscle mitochondrial content. We also describe emerging evidence demonstrating similarities and differences in the adaptive response between women and men. Collectively, HIIT and SIT have consistently been demonstrated to improve cardiorespiratory fitness in women, and most sex-based comparisons demonstrate similar improvements in men and women. However, research examining insulin sensitivity and skeletal muscle mitochondrial responses to HIIT and SIT in women is limited and conflicting, with some evidence of blunted improvements in women relative to men. There is a need for additional research that examines physiological adaptations to low-volume interval training in women across the lifespan, including studies that directly compare responses to MICT, evaluate potential mechanisms, and/or assess the influence of sex on the adaptive response. Future work in this area will strengthen the evidence-base for physical activity recommendations in women.
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Martinez-Navarro I, Collado E, Hernando B, Hernando C. Pulmonary and Inspiratory Muscle Function Response to a Mountain Ultramarathon. J Sports Sci Med 2021; 20:706-713. [PMID: 35321133 PMCID: PMC8488829 DOI: 10.52082/jssm.2021.706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The study aimed to provide within-race data on the time course of pulmonary function during a mountain ultramarathon (MUM). Additionally, we wanted to assess possible sex differences regarding pre- to post-race change in pulmonary and inspiratory muscle function. Lastly, we were interested in evaluating whether changes in respiratory function were associated with relative running speed and due to general or specific fatigue. 47 athletes (29 males and 18 females; 41 ± 5 years) were submitted to a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) before a 107-km MUM. Spirometric variables: forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), FEV1/FVC and peak expiratory flow (PEF); maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP); squat jump (SJ) and handgrip strength (HG) were assessed before and after the race. Additionally PEF was measured at three aid stations (33rd, 66th and 84th km) during the race. PEF declined from the 33rd to the 66th km (p = 0.004; d = 0.72) and from the 84th km to the finish line (p = 0.003; d = 0.90), while relative running speed dropped from the first (0-33 km) to the second (33-66 km) race section (p < 0.001; d = 1.81) and from the third (66-84 km) to the last race section (p < 0.001; d = 1.61). Post-race, a moderate reduction was noted in FVC (-13%; p < 0.001; d = 0.52), FEV1 (-19.5%; p < 0.001; d = 0.65), FEV1/FVC (-8.4%; p = 0.030; d = 0.59), PEF (-20.3%; p < 0.001; d = 0.58), MIP (-25.3%; p < 0.001; d = 0.79) and SJ (-31.6%; p < 0.001; d = 1.42). Conversely, HG did not change from pre- to post-race (-1.4%; p = 0.56; d = 0.05). PEF declined during the race in parallel with running speed drop. No sex differences were noted regarding post-race respiratory function, except that FEV1/FVC decay was significantly greater among women. The magnitude of pre- to post-race respiratory function decline was uncorrelated with relative running speed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Martinez-Navarro
- Physical Education and Sports Department, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Sports Health Unit, Vithas 9 de Octubre Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | - Eladio Collado
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Jaume I University, Castellon, Spain
| | | | - Carlos Hernando
- Sport Service, Jaume I University, Castellon, Spain
- Department of Education and Specific Didactics, Jaume I University, Castellon, Spain
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Besson T, Parent A, Brownstein CG, Espeit L, Lapole T, Martin V, Royer N, Rimaud D, Sabater Pastor F, Singh B, Varesco G, Rossi J, Temesi J, Millet GY. Sex Differences in Neuromuscular Fatigue and Changes in Cost of Running after Mountain Trail Races of Various Distances. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2021; 53:2374-2387. [PMID: 34107510 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women have been shown to experience less neuromuscular fatigue than men in knee extensors (KE) and less peripheral fatigue in plantar flexors (PF) after ultratrail running, but it is unknown if these differences exist for shorter trail running races and whether this may impact running economy. The purpose of this study was to characterize sex differences in fatigability over a range of running distances and to examine possible differences in the postrace alteration of the cost of running (Cr). METHODS Eighteen pairs of men and women were matched by performance after completing different races ranging from 40 to 171 km, divided into SHORT versus LONG races (<60 and >100 km, respectively). Neuromuscular function and Cr were tested before and after each race. Neuromuscular function was evaluated on both KE and PF with voluntary and evoked contractions using electrical nerve (KE and PF) and transcranial magnetic (KE) stimulation. Oxygen uptake, respiratory exchange ratio, and ventilation were measured on a treadmill and used to calculate Cr. RESULTS Compared with men, women displayed a smaller decrease in maximal strength in KE (-36% vs -27%, respectively, P < 0.01), independent of race distance. In SHORT only, women displayed less peripheral fatigue in PF compared with men (Δ peak twitch: -10% vs -24%, respectively, P < 0.05). Cr increased similarly in men and women. CONCLUSIONS Women experience less neuromuscular fatigue than men after both "classic" and "extreme" prolonged running exercises but this does not impact the degradation of the energy Cr.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibault Besson
- Univ Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint-Etienne, FRANCE
| | - Audrey Parent
- Department of Biological Sciences, Université du Québec à Montréal (UQÀM), Montreal, Quebec, CANADA
| | - Callum G Brownstein
- Univ Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint-Etienne, FRANCE
| | - Loïc Espeit
- Univ Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint-Etienne, FRANCE
| | - Thomas Lapole
- Univ Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint-Etienne, FRANCE
| | | | - Nicolas Royer
- Univ Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint-Etienne, FRANCE
| | - Diana Rimaud
- Univ Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint-Etienne, FRANCE
| | - Frederic Sabater Pastor
- Univ Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint-Etienne, FRANCE
| | - Benjamin Singh
- Univ Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint-Etienne, FRANCE
| | - Giorgio Varesco
- Univ Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint-Etienne, FRANCE
| | - Jeremy Rossi
- Univ Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint-Etienne, FRANCE
| | - John Temesi
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UNITED KINGDOM
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Analysis of sex-based differences in energy substrate utilization during moderate-intensity aerobic exercise. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 122:29-70. [PMID: 34550468 PMCID: PMC8748379 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04802-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore sex-based differences in energy substrate utilization during moderate-intensity aerobic exercise; to identify the underpinning candidate physiological mechanisms. METHODS Three databases were searched from inception to August 2020. Pertinent studies quantifying the utilization of substrates during moderate aerobic exercise in healthy men and reproductive-age women were considered. Studies conducted on sedentary/recreationally active and athletic populations were included and analyzed separately. RESULTS Thirty-five studies entered the meta-analysis (21 in sedentary/recreationally active, 14 in athletic populations). Compared to women, the respiratory exchange ratio was significantly higher both in sedentary (mean difference, MD: + 0.03; p < 0.00001) and athletic men (MD: + 0.02; p < 0.0001). Greater carbohydrate oxidation was observed both in sedentary (standardized MD, SMD: 0.53; p = 0.006) and athletic men (SMD: 1.24; p < 0.00001). Regarding lipid substrates, sedentary men oxidized less fat than women (SMD: - 0.77; p = 0.0002), while no sex-based differences in fat oxidation were observed in athletes (SMD: 0.06; p = 0.77). Paucity of data prevented robust meta-analyses for protein sources. Sex hormones and different adrenergic activation were the most cited mechanisms to discuss sex-based differences. CONCLUSIONS Meta-analyses confirmed that men display greater reliance on carbohydrates while women rely more on lipids to sustain moderate aerobic exercise. The latter finding was not confirmed in athletes, a novel aspect of the present study. Mechanistically driven research is needed to further dissect the physiological underpinnings of sex differences in substrate utilization during aerobic exercise, especially for proteins, which are still less investigated than other substrates.
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Potential Long-Term Health Problems Associated with Ultra-Endurance Running: A Narrative Review. Sports Med 2021; 52:725-740. [PMID: 34542868 PMCID: PMC8450723 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-021-01561-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
It is well established that physical activity reduces all-cause mortality and can prolong life. Ultra-endurance running (UER) is an extreme sport that is becoming increasingly popular, and comprises running races above marathon distance, exceeding 6 h, and/or running fixed distances on multiple days. Serious acute adverse events are rare, but there is mounting evidence that UER may lead to long-term health problems. The purpose of this review is to present the current state of knowledge regarding the potential long-term health problems derived from UER, specifically potential maladaptation in key organ systems, including cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, renal, immunological, gastrointestinal, neurological, and integumentary systems. Special consideration is given to youth, masters, and female athletes, all of whom may be more susceptible to certain long-term health issues. We present directions for future research into the pathophysiological mechanisms that underpin athlete susceptibility to long-term issues. Although all body systems can be affected by UER, one of the clearest effects of endurance exercise is on the cardiovascular system, including right ventricular dysfunction and potential increased risk of arrhythmias and hypertension. There is also evidence that rare cases of acute renal injury in UER could lead to progressive renal scarring and chronic kidney disease. There are limited data specific to female athletes, who may be at greater risk of certain UER-related health issues due to interactions between energy availability and sex-hormone concentrations. Indeed, failure to consider sex differences in the design of female-specific UER training programs may have a negative impact on athlete longevity. It is hoped that this review will inform risk stratification and stimulate further research about UER and the implications for long-term health.
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Wirnitzer K, Motevalli M, Tanous DR, Gregori M, Wirnitzer G, Leitzmann C, Rosemann T, Knechtle B. Sex Differences in Supplement Intake in Recreational Endurance Runners-Results from the NURMI Study (Step 2). Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13082776. [PMID: 34444935 PMCID: PMC8402241 DOI: 10.3390/nu13082776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been well-documented that female and male athletes differ in many physiological and psychological characteristics related to endurance performance. This sex-based difference appears to be associated with their nutritional demands including the patterns of supplement intake. However, there is a paucity of research addressing the sex differences in supplement intake amongst distance runners. The present study aimed to investigate and compare supplement intake between female and male distance runners (10 km, half-marathon, (ultra-)marathon) and the potential associations with diet type and race distance. A total of 317 runners participated in an online survey, and 220 distance runners (127 females and 93 males) made up the final sample after a multi-stage data clearance. Participants were also assigned to dietary (omnivorous, vegetarian, vegan) and race distance (10-km, half-marathon, marathon/ultra-marathon) subgroups. Sociodemographic characteristics and the patterns of supplement intake including type, frequency, dosage, and brands were collected using a questionnaire. One-way ANOVA and logistic regression were used for data analysis. A total of 54.3% of female runners and 47.3% male runners reported consuming supplements regularly. The frequency of supplement intake was similar between females and males (generally or across dietary and distance subgroups). There was no significant relationship for sex alone or sex interactions with diet type and race distance on supplement intake (p < 0.05). However, a non-significant higher intake of vitamin and mineral (but not CHO/protein) supplements was reported by vegan and vegetarian (but not by omnivorous) females compared to their male counterparts. In summary, despite the reported findings, sex could not be considered as a strong modulator of supplement intake among different groups of endurance runners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Wirnitzer
- Department of Subject Didactics and Educational Research and Development, University College of Teacher Education Tyrol, 6010 Innsbruck, Austria;
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (M.M.); (D.R.T.)
- Life and Health Science Cluster Tirol, Subcluster Health/Medicine/Psychology, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- Research Center Medical Humanities, Leopold-Franzens University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Mohamad Motevalli
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (M.M.); (D.R.T.)
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad 9177948979, Iran
| | - Derrick R. Tanous
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (M.M.); (D.R.T.)
| | - Martina Gregori
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | | | - Claus Leitzmann
- Institute of Nutrition, University of Gießen, 35390 Gießen, Germany;
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
- Medbase St. Gallen Am Vadianplatz, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-(071)-226-9300
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Dolci F, Kilding A, Spiteri T, Chivers P, Piggott B, Maiorana A, Hart NH. Characterising running economy and change of direction economy between soccer players of different playing positions, levels and sex. Eur J Sport Sci 2021; 22:1167-1176. [PMID: 34228596 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2021.1953151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Traditional movement economy (ME) measures the energetic cost of in-line running. However, it is debatable whether such a measure is representative of movement efficiency for team sport athletes who are required to run and change direction repeatedly. This study evaluated ME during both in-line running and runs with directional changes and provided a preliminary exploration as to whether these abilities discriminate soccer players according to playing position, level, and sex. Forty-three soccer players were assessed for ME as extrapolated from oxygen uptake during in-line running (RE) and running with changes of directions (using 20 and 10 m shuttle runs [SRE20 and SRE10]) at 8.4 km/h mean speed. ME worsened with change of direction frequency (p < 0.001). Coefficient of determination was high between RE and SRE20 (r2 = 0.601) but dropped below 0.5 for RE and SRE10 (r2 = 0.280) as change of direction frequency increased. No significant differences were observed between different player positions, however, centre midfielders reported the best ME across any position and running mode, with the largest differences observed in centre backs over SRE10 (41.9 ± 2.7 ml/kg/min [centre midfielders] vs 45 ± 1.8 ml/kg/min [centre backs]; ES = 1.19). No significant differences were observed for ME over any running condition for male players of different playing levels. Female players exhibited better ME than male players with significant differences observed for SRE10 (41.5 ± 2.6 ml/kg/min [females] vs 44 ± 2.6 ml/kg/min [males]; p = 0.013; ES = 0.94). RE does not adequately account for efficiency during activities that involve changes of direction. SRE10 is a stronger discriminator of ME between soccer players of different position and sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Dolci
- School of Health Science, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, Australia
| | - Andrew Kilding
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tania Spiteri
- School of Medical and Health Science, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
| | - Paola Chivers
- School of Medical and Health Science, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia.,Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, Australia.,Exercise Medicine Research Institute, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
| | - Ben Piggott
- School of Health Science, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, Australia
| | - Andrew Maiorana
- School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.,Allied Health Department, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - Nicolas H Hart
- School of Medical and Health Science, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia.,Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, Australia.,Exercise Medicine Research Institute, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia.,Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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40
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Bermon S, Garrandes F, Szabo A, Berkovics I, Adami PE. Effect of Advanced Shoe Technology on the Evolution of Road Race Times in Male and Female Elite Runners. Front Sports Act Living 2021; 3:653173. [PMID: 33969296 PMCID: PMC8100054 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2021.653173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The influence of advanced footwear technology (thickness of light midsole foam and rigid plate) on distance running performances was analyzed during an 8-year period. Analysis of variance was used to measure effects of time, gender, shoe technology, and East African origin on male and female top 20 or top 100 seasonal best times in 10-kilometer races, half-marathons, and marathons. In both genders and three distance-running events, seasonal best times significantly decreased from 2017, which coincided with the introduction of the advanced footwear technology in distance running. This performance improvement was of similar magnitude in both East African and non-East African elite runners. In female elite athletes, the magnitudes (from 1.7 to 2.3%) of the decrease in seasonal best times between 2016 and 2019 were significantly higher than in their male counterparts (from 0.6 to 1.5%). Analyses of variance confirmed that the adoption of the advanced footwear technology significantly improved the top 20 seasonal best times in female half marathons and marathons and male marathons, with the improvements being more pronounced in females and in long-distance running events. The adoption of this new shoe technology improved female marathon time by ~2 min and 10 s, which represents a significant increase in performance (1.7%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Bermon
- Health and Science Department, World Athletics, Manoco City, Monaco.,Laboratoire Motricité Humaine Expertise Sport Santé, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | | | | | | | - Paolo Emilio Adami
- Health and Science Department, World Athletics, Manoco City, Monaco.,Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico," Rome, Italy
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Scheer V, Krabak BJ. Musculoskeletal Injuries in Ultra-Endurance Running: A Scoping Review. Front Physiol 2021; 12:664071. [PMID: 33868030 PMCID: PMC8044296 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.664071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ultra-endurance running (UER) has seen an important increase in participation over the last few decades. Long hours of UER can lead to excessive stress on the body, resulting in musculoskeletal injuries (MSKI). UER is not a uniform sport and events can differ considerably in distance (over 42.195 km), time (e.g., events over 6 h) and multi-day or multi-stage events on various surfaces (e.g., track, on-road, off-road). The aims of this scoping review were therefore: (1) to examine the current evidence of MSKI, providing a synthesis of the most common MSKI by anatomical region and specific diagnosis; (2) categorize MSKI by type of UER activity (competition: time-limited; multi-stage; continuous UER events and training); (3) describe knowledge gaps in the literature and provide advice on potential further research. Our electronic literature search (PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science) identified a total of 13 studies (9 in competition, and 4 in training). Anatomical site, diagnosis and rate of injuries differ between competition and training as well as between different UER types. MSKI are observed in 18% of multi-stage events (0.7-1.8 injuries/runner and 7.2 injuries/1000 h). Most MSKI involve the lower leg (35.0%), ankle (16.8%), knee (13.1%) and foot (12.6%), with main diagnosis of medial tibial stress syndrome (30.1%) and patella femoral pain syndrome (PFPS; 7.2%). Single, continuous UER events differ between a 1005 km road race with almost all of the injuries due to overuse, with the main anatomical site of the knee (31%), ankle (28%) and lower leg (14%) and main diagnosis of PFPS (15.6%), compared to a 65 km trail race, with 32.8% of MSKI, mainly on the foot [plantar fasciitis (28.6%)], ankle [sprain (28.6%)] and knee. Timed-UER events (injury rate of 2.1 injuries/athlete) observed most injuries on the ankle (36%) and knee (19%), with the main diagnosis of tendinitis of the foot dorsiflexors (30%). Injuries during training most commonly affect, the back (42%), and knee (40%) and bone stress injuries (22%). Main diagnoses include ankle sprain (18%), iliotibial band injury (16%) and Achilles tendinopathy (11%). Future considerations include examining MSKI in different UER events, environments and surfaces, and on larger study populations. Establishing risk factors, examining sex differences and using a standard reporting system of MSKI in UER are also important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker Scheer
- Ultra Sports Science Foundation, Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Brian J Krabak
- University of Washington and Seattle Children's Sports Medicine, Seattle, WA, United States
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Wohlgemuth KJ, Arieta LR, Brewer GJ, Hoselton AL, Gould LM, Smith-Ryan AE. Sex differences and considerations for female specific nutritional strategies: a narrative review. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2021; 18:27. [PMID: 33794937 PMCID: PMC8015182 DOI: 10.1186/s12970-021-00422-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although there is a plethora of information available regarding the impact of nutrition on exercise performance, many recommendations are based on male needs due to the dominance of male participation in the nutrition and exercise science literature. Female participation in sport and exercise is prevalent, making it vital for guidelines to address the sex-specific nutritional needs. Female hormonal levels, such as estrogen and progesterone, fluctuate throughout the mensural cycle and lifecycle requiring more attention for effective nutritional considerations. Sex-specific nutritional recommendations and guidelines for the active female and female athlete have been lacking to date and warrant further consideration. This review provides a practical overview of key physiological and nutritional considerations for the active female. Available literature regarding sex-specific nutrition and dietary supplement guidelines for women has been synthesized, offering evidenced-based practical information that can be incorporated into the daily lives of women to improve performance, body composition, and overall health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kealey J Wohlgemuth
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Luke R Arieta
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Gabrielle J Brewer
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Andrew L Hoselton
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Lacey M Gould
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Abbie E Smith-Ryan
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
- Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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