1
|
Knechtle B, Valero D, Villiger E, Thuany M, Andrade MS, Nikolaidis PT, Cuk I, Weiss K. Comparing the Performance Gap Between Males and Females in the Older Age Groups in IRONMAN® 70.3: An Internet-Based Cross-Sectional Study of More Than 800,000 Race Records. Sports Med - Open 2023; 9:88. [PMID: 37733151 PMCID: PMC10514017 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-023-00636-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The sex difference in the three split disciplines (swimming, cycling, and running) and overall race times in triathlon races has mainly been investigated for the Olympic distance and IRONMAN® triathlon formats, but not for the half IRONMAN® distance, i.e., the IRONMAN® 70.3. The aim of the present study was to investigate the sex differences in IRONMAN® 70.3 by age group in 5-year intervals for the split disciplines of this race. Data from 823,459 records (625,393 males and 198,066 females) of all age group finishers (in 5-year intervals) competing in all official IRONMAN® 70.3 races held worldwide between 2004 and 2020 were analyzed, and sex differences by age group and split disciplines were evaluated. RESULTS Males were faster than females in all split disciplines and all age groups. The sex difference was lower in swimming than in cycling and running and less pronounced for triathletes between 20 and 50 years of age. After the age of 60 years, females were able to reduce the sex difference to males in swimming and cycling, but not in running, where the reduction in the sex difference started after the age of 70 years. The lowest sex difference was in the age group 75 + years for swimming and cycling and in the age group 30-34 years for running. Across age groups, the sex difference was U-shaped in swimming and running, with an increase after 18-24 years in swimming and after 40-44 years in running. In contrast, the sex difference decreased continuously with the increasing age for cycling. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, the study found that the sex difference in performance decreases with age in the IRONMAN® 70.3 race distance. However, females did not outperform males at older ages. Notably, sex differences were observed across different disciplines, with swimming displaying lower differences compared to cycling and running. These findings underscore the complex interplay between age, sex, and performance in endurance sports, emphasizing the need for additional research to understand the factors influencing these differences.
Collapse
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
| | - Elias Villiger
- Klinik für Allgemeine Innere Medizin, Kantonsspital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Ivan Cuk
- Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Katja Weiss
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vingren JL, Boyett JC, Lee EC, Levitt DE, Luk HY, McDermott BP, Munoz CX, Ganio MS, Armstrong LE, Hill DW. A Single Dose of Ibuprofen Impacts IL-10 Response to 164-km Road Cycling in the Heat. Res Q Exerc Sport 2022:1-7. [PMID: 35344476 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2021.1981539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose was to determine the effect of a single-dose prophylactic ibuprofen use before a 164-km road cycling event in high ambient temperature on the circulating cytokine and leukocyte responses. Methods: Twenty-three men (53 ± 8 y, 172.0 ± 22.0 cm, 85.1 ± 12.8 kg, 19.6 ± 4.4% body fat) completed a 164-km self-paced recreational road cycling event in a hot, humid, sunny environment (WBGT = 29.0 ± 2.9°C) after consuming 600 mg of ibuprofen (n = 13) or a placebo (n = 10). Blood samples were obtained one to two hours before (PRE) and immediately after (POST) the event, and analyzed for concentrations of circulating cytokines interleukins (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, GM-CSF, IFN-γ, and TNF-α and leukocytes (total leukocytes, granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes). Results: Event completion time was 400.2 ± 74.8 min. Concentrations of all cytokines (except IL-1β, IL-2, IL-5, IL-12, GM-CSF, and IFN-γ) and of all leukocyte subsets increased from PRE to POST. Ibuprofen ingestion attenuated the increase in IL-10 (86% increase with Ibuprofen; 270% increase with placebo). Conclusions: Consuming 600 mg of Ibuprofen prior to a 164-km road cycling event in a hot-humid environment attenuates exercise-induced increases in the concentration of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, but does not alter the effect of the exercise event on concentrations of other circulating cytokines or leukocyte subset concentrations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - H Y Luk
- University of North Texas
- Texas Tech University
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rubio-Arias JÁ, Andreu L, Martínez-Aranda LM, Martínez-Rodríguez A, Manonelles P, Ramos-Campo DJ. Effects of medium- and long-distance running on cardiac damage markers in amateur runners: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and metaregression. J Sport Health Sci 2021; 10:192-200. [PMID: 33742602 PMCID: PMC7987568 DOI: 10.1016/j.jshs.2019.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To finish an endurance race, athletes perform a vigorous effort that induces the release of cardiac damage markers. There are several factors that can affect the total number of these markers, so the aim of this review was to analyze the effect of endurance running races on cardiac damage markers and to identify the factors that modify the levels of segregation of these cardiac damage markers. METHODS A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases was performed. This analysis included studies where the acute effects of running races on cardiac damage markers (troponin I and troponin T) were analyzed, assessing the levels of these markers before and after the races. RESULTS The effects of running races on troponin I (mean difference = 0.0381 ng/mL) and troponin T (mean difference = 0.0256 ng/mL) levels were significant. The ages (R2 = 14.4%, p = 0.033) and body mass indexes (R2 = 14.5%, p = 0.045) of the athletes had a significant interaction with troponin I. In addition, gender, mean speed, time to finish the race, and type of race can affect the level of cardiac damage markers. CONCLUSION Endurance running races induce the release of cardiac-damage markers that remain elevated for at least 24 h after the races. In addition, young male athletes with high body mass indexes who perform races combining long duration and moderate intensity (i.e., marathons) release the highest levels of cardiac damage markers. Physicians should take into consideration these results in the diagnosis and treatment of patients admitted to the hospital days after finishing endurance running races.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacobo Á Rubio-Arias
- Faculty of Sport, Catholic University of San Antonio (UCAM), Murcia 30107, Spain; LFE Research Group, Department of Health and Human Performance, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sport Science-INEF, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid 28040, Spain.
| | - Luis Andreu
- International Chair of Sports Medicine, Catholic University of San Antonio (UCAM), Murcia 30107, Spain
| | - Luis Manuel Martínez-Aranda
- Faculty of Sport, Catholic University of San Antonio (UCAM), Murcia 30107, Spain; Neuroscience of Human Movement Research Group (Neuromove), Catholic University of San Antonio (UCAM), Murcia 30107, Spain
| | | | - Pedro Manonelles
- International Chair of Sports Medicine, Catholic University of San Antonio (UCAM), Murcia 30107, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bachman NP, Terwoord JD, Richards JC, Braun B, Green CP, Luckasen GJ, Dinenno FA. Comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular structure and function and disease risk in middle-aged ultra-endurance athletes. Atherosclerosis 2020; 320:105-111. [PMID: 33334550 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2020.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Recent studies suggest that long-term endurance training may be damaging to the heart, thus increasing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. However, studies utilizing cardiac imaging are conflicting and lack measures of central and peripheral vascular structure and function, which are also independently predictive of CVD events. METHODS We performed a comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular structure and function in long-term (≥ 10 years) ultra-endurance athletes (ATH, 14 M/11 F, 50 ± 1 y) and physically active controls (CON, 9 M/9 F, 49 ± 2 y). RESULTS As expected, left ventricular mass and end-diastolic volume (echocardiography) were greater in ATH vs CON, whereas there was no difference in cardiac function at rest. Coronary artery calcium scores (computed tomography) were not statistically different between groups. There was no evidence of myocardial fibrosis (contrast magnetic resonance imaging) in any subject. Aortic stiffness (carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity) was lower in ATH vs CON (6.2 ± 0.2 vs 6.9 ± 0.2 m/s, p < 0.05), whereas carotid intima-media thickness (ultrasound) was not different between groups. Peripheral vascular endothelial function (flow-mediated vasodilation of the brachial artery) and microvascular function (peak blood velocity) in response to 5 min of forearm ischemia were not different between groups. Furthermore, there was no difference in 10-year coronary heart disease risk (ATH; 2.3 ± 0.5 vs CON; 1.6 ± 0.2%, p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that middle-aged ultra-endurance ATH do not have marked signs of widespread cardiovascular dysfunction or elevated CHD risk compared to CON meeting physical activity guidelines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nate P Bachman
- Human Cardiovascular Physiology Laboratory, Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, 1582 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Janée D Terwoord
- Human Cardiovascular Physiology Laboratory, Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, 1582 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Jennifer C Richards
- Human Cardiovascular Physiology Laboratory, Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, 1582 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Barry Braun
- Human Performance Clinical Research Laboratory, Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, 1582 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - C Patrick Green
- Medical Center of the Rockies Foundation, University of Colorado Health, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave, Loveland, CO, 80538, USA
| | - Gary J Luckasen
- Medical Center of the Rockies Foundation, University of Colorado Health, 2500 Rocky Mountain Ave, Loveland, CO, 80538, USA
| | - Frank A Dinenno
- Human Cardiovascular Physiology Laboratory, Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, 1582 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jeker D, Falbriard M, Vernillo G, Meyer F, Savoldelli A, Degache F, Schena F, Aminian K, Millet GP. Changes in spatio-temporal gait parameters and vertical speed during an extreme mountain ultra-marathon. Eur J Sport Sci 2020; 20:1339-1345. [PMID: 31914356 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2020.1712480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of altitude and distance on uphill vertical speed (VS) and the main spatio-temporal gait parameters during an extreme mountain ultra-marathon. The VS, stride height (SH) and stride frequency (SF) of 27 runners were measured with an inertial sensor at the shank for two different altitude ranges (low 1300-2000 m vs high 2400-3200 m) of 10 mountains passes distributed over a 220 km course. There was a significant interaction (F(4,52) = 4.04, p < 0.01) for the effect of altitude and distance on VS. During the first passes, the mean VS was faster at lower altitudes, but this difference disappeared at a quarter of the race length, suggesting that neuromuscular fatigue influenced the uphill velocity to a larger extent than the oxygen delivery. The average VS, SH and SF were 547 ± 135 m/h, 0.23 ± 0.05 m and 0.66 ± 0.09 Hz. The individual VS change for each uphill portions was more strongly correlated with the changes in SH (r = 0.80, P < 0.001, n = 321) than SF (r = 0.43, P < 0.001, n = 321). This suggests a large effect of the knee extensors strength loss on the diminution of VS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Jeker
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mathieu Falbriard
- Laboratory of Movement Analysis and Measurement, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gianluca Vernillo
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.,CeRiSM, Research Centre 'Sport, Mountain and Health', University of Verona, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Frederic Meyer
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Aldo Savoldelli
- CeRiSM, Research Centre 'Sport, Mountain and Health', University of Verona, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Francis Degache
- School of Health Sciences, University of Applied Science and Arts Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Federico Schena
- CeRiSM, Research Centre 'Sport, Mountain and Health', University of Verona, Rovereto, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Kamiar Aminian
- Laboratory of Movement Analysis and Measurement, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Grégoire P Millet
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Smith KA, Kisiolek JN, Willingham BD, Morrissey MC, Leyh SM, Saracino PG, Baur DA, Cook MD, Ormsbee MJ. Ultra-endurance triathlon performance and markers of whole-body and gut-specific inflammation. Eur J Appl Physiol 2020; 120:349-57. [PMID: 31828478 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-019-04279-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the influence of the Ultraman Florida triathlon (3 days of non-continuous racing; stage 1: 10 km swim and 144.8 km cycle; stage 2: 275.4 km cycle; stage 3: 84.4 km run) on circulating plasma concentrations of whole-body (C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-6 (IL-6), and IL-10 and surrogate gut-specific inflammatory markers (IL-17 and IL-23), and determine whether these variables are associated with performance. METHODS Eighteen triathletes (N = 18; 15 men, 3 women; age: 37 ± 8 yrs) were evaluated at baseline and post-race for circulating concentrations of CRP, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, and IL-23. Blood samples were drawn two days prior to stage 1 (1600 h) and one day after stage 3 (1200 h). RESULTS Plasma CRP significantly increased from baseline (1985.8 ± 5962.3 ng/mL) to post-race (27,013.9 ± 12,888.8 ng/mL, p < 0.001, 13-fold increase). Both plasma IL-6 and IL-10 did not significantly change from baseline to post-race. Baseline and post-race concentrations of IL-17 and IL-23 were below detectable limits. Pearson's correlation between mean finish time and post-race IL-10 revealed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.54, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-10 involved in the inflammatory response return to near-baseline concentrations rapidly even after ultra-endurance events of extreme duration. The absence of IL-17 and IL-23 may suggest positive gut adaptations from ultra-endurance training. A significant positive correlation between post-race IL-10 concentrations and mean finish time may indicate that a relationship between anti-inflammatory responses and performance exists.
Collapse
|
7
|
Stearns RL, Nolan JK, Huggins RA, Maresh CM, Munõz CX, Pagnotta KD, Volk BM, Casa DJ. Influence of cold-water immersion on recovery of elite triathletes following the ironman world championship. J Sci Med Sport 2018; 21:846-851. [PMID: 29685828 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2017.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cold water immersion (CWI) has been widely used for enhancing athlete recovery though its use following an Ironman triathlon has never been examined. The purpose of this paper is to determine the influence of CWI immediately following an Ironman triathlon on markers of muscle damage, inflammation and muscle soreness. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. METHODS Thirty three (22 male, 11 female), triathletes participating in the Ironman World Championships volunteered to participate (mean±SD: age=40±11years; height=174.5±9.1cm; body mass=70±11.8kg; percent body fat=11.4±4.1%, finish time=11:03.00±01:25.08). Post race, participants were randomly assigned to a 10-min bout of 10°C CWI or no-intervention control group. Data collection occurred pre-intervention (PRE), post-intervention (POST), 16h (16POST) and 40h (40POST) following the race. Linear mixed model ANOVA with Bonferroni corrections were performed to examine group by time differences for delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), hydration indices, myoglobin, creatine kinase (CK), cortisol, C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-6 and percent body mass loss (%BML). Pearson's bivariate correlations were used for comparisons with finishing time. Alpha level was set a priori at 0.05. RESULTS No significant group by time interactions occurred. Significant differences occurred for POST BML (-1.7±0.9kg) vs. 16POST, and 40POST BML (0.9±1.4, -0.1±1.2kg, respectively; p<0.001). Compared to PRE, myoglobin, CRP and CK remained significantly elevated at 40POST. Cortisol returned to PRE values by 16POST and IL-6 returned to PRE values by 40POST. CONCLUSION A single bout of CWI did not provide any physiological benefit during recovery from a triathlon within 40h post race. Effect of CWI beyond this time is unknown.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Stearns
- Korey Stringer Institute, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, United States.
| | - Julie K Nolan
- College of Health Professions, Sacred Heart University, United States
| | - Robert A Huggins
- Korey Stringer Institute, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, United States
| | - Carl M Maresh
- Department of Human Sciences, Ohio State University, United States
| | - Colleen X Munõz
- Department of Health Sciences and Nursing, University of Hartford, United States
| | - Kelly D Pagnotta
- College of Science, Health and Liberal Arts, Jefferson (Philadelphia University+Thomas Jefferson University), United States
| | | | - Douglas J Casa
- Korey Stringer Institute, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, United States
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
Ultra-endurance sports have gained popularity over the last years. In this case, a well-trained cyclist completed 503.5 km non-stop (33.3 km.h-1). Speed and power output were reduced during the trial, being the reduction of power attributable to changes in pedal velocity rather than pedal forces. Heart rate (HR) showed an initial cardiovascular drift and progressively decreased independently of power. A decreased HR variability, a marked inflammatory response, signs of muscle damage and alterations of the haematological profile were observed after the trial. These adverse physiological effects were still present 24-48 h after exercise. A reduction in handgrip maximal voluntary contraction was observed immediately after the trial and 24 h later despite these muscles being minimally active during exercise. These findings show the high levels of stress to which the organism is subjected during ultra-endurance exercise even in the case of a trained cyclist.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro L Valenzuela
- a Physiology Unit, Systems Biology Department , University of Alcalá , Madrid , Spain.,b Department of Sport and Health , Spanish Agency for Health Protection in Sport (AEPSAD) , Madrid , Spain
| | - Carl Foster
- c Department of Exercise and Sport Science , University of Wisconsin-La Crosse , La Crosse , USA
| | - Alejandro Lucía
- d School of Health Sciences , European University , Madrid , Spain
| | - Pedro de la Villa
- a Physiology Unit, Systems Biology Department , University of Alcalá , Madrid , Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
TAN PHILIPLS, TAN FRANKIEHY, BOSCH ANDREWN. Assessment of Differences in the Anthropometric, Physiological and Training Characteristics of Finishers and Non-finishers in a Tropical 161-km Ultra-marathon. Int J Exerc Sci 2017; 10:465-478. [PMID: 28966704 PMCID: PMC5609674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to compare and determine the differences in the physiological, anthropometric and training characteristics of the finishers (FIN) and non-finishers (N-FIN) in a 161-km race. Two groups of runners (FIN; N=12 and N-FIN; N=14) completed a series of anthropometric and physiological measurements over two separate sessions at least three weeks prior to the race. Training sessions starting from six weeks prior to the race were recorded. Sum of 7 skinfolds, arm and calf girths, VO2max and peak treadmill speed (PTS) were taken during session 1 while the lactate threshold (LT) and running economy (RE) were assessed during session 2. Effect size calculations showed moderate and clear differences in the lactate concentration at LT1 (ES = 0.88, P = 0.05), velocity at LT2 (ES = 0.70, P = 0.07), longest run attempted (ES = 0.73, P = 0.07) and number of cross-training hours (ES = 0.73, P = 0.06) between the FIN and N-FIN. The results suggest that from a physiological perspective, the ability to finish a 161-km race might be differentiated by metabolic attributes via LT measurements. Runners should not neglect the importance of the long runs and should incorporate cross-training to provide additional stimuli to the body while allowing the running muscles to recover from fatigue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- PHILIP LS. TAN
- Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA
| | - FRANKIE HY. TAN
- Sports Science Centre, Singapore Sports Institute, Sport Singapore, SINGAPORE,Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, SINGAPORE
| | - ANDREW N. BOSCH
- Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Creatine kinase (CK) is a sensitive enzyme marker for muscle damage in athletes. Elevated CK levels have been reported in many endurance physical activities. The consequence and possible long-term sequela of the CK elevation in athletes is unknown. There is a paucity of literature stating actual numerical values of CK associated with competing in an ultramarathon with extreme environmental conditions. Our hypothesis was that the serum CK levels increase significantly as a result of running a 161 km ultramarathon at high altitude. METHODS This was a prospective observational study of participants of the Leadville 100 ultramarathon race in Leadville, Colorado at high altitude (2800-3840 m) in August 2014. We collected blood samples from sixty-four volunteer runners before and eighty-three runners immediately after the race. RESULTS Out of 669 athletes who started the race, 352 successfully completed the race in less than the 30-hour cut-off time (52%). The majority of runners were male (84%). We were able to collect both pre- and post-race blood samples from 36 runners. Out of these 36 runners, the mean pre-race CK was increased from 126 ± 64 U/L to 14,569 ± 14,729 U/L (p < 0.001). There was a weak linear correlation between lower sodium levels and higher CK levels post-race (p = 0.003; R2 = 0.10). Using a multiple regression model, other than a negative correlation between sodium and CK levels (p = 0.001), there were no statistically significant correlations between post-race CK levels and athletes' age, BMI, or finishing time. CONCLUSIONS Significant elevation of CK level occurs as a result of running ultramarathons. The majority of athletes with significantly elevated CK levels were asymptomatic and required no major medical attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Magrini
- a Division of Orthopedics , Children's Hospital of Philadelphia , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - Morteza Khodaee
- b Department of Family Medicine, Division of Sports Medicine , University of Colorado School of Medicine , Denver , CO , USA
| | - Iñigo San-Millán
- c Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Division of Sports Medicine , University of Colorado School of Medicine , Aurora , CO , USA
| | - Tamara Hew-Butler
- d Exercise Science Program, Oakland University School of Health Sciences , Rochester , MI , USA
| | - Aaron J Provance
- e Department of Orthopedics, Division of Sports Medicine , University of Colorado School of Medicine , Aurora , CO , USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Didier S, Vauthier JC, Gambier N, Renaud P, Chenuel B, Poussel M. Substance use and misuse in a mountain ultramarathon: new insight into ultrarunners population? Res Sports Med 2017; 25:244-251. [PMID: 28114830 DOI: 10.1080/15438627.2017.1282356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Endurance and ultra-endurance events have become increasingly popular. The aim of our study was to explore the use of medication among endurance runners participating in the 2014 Infernal Trail des Vosges. Among the 389 runners engaged, 297 (76.3%) completed a specific questionnaire dealing with substance use/misuse. Our results show a 27% (before the race) and 18% (during the race) prevalence of substance use. The two major classes of substances used were non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; 9.8%) and painkillers (6.7%), principally because of osteo-articular pain (29.6%) or to prevent pain (28.2%). A positive correlation was found between substance consumption before (past month) and during the race (overall medication: p < 0.0001; NSAIDs: p = 0.008). Our results could be explained by the specific characteristics of ultrarunners predominantly motivated by personal achievement and general health (recreational approach). However, education interventions should further be delivered regarding the risks of substance use in ultra-endurance events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Didier
- a Department of General Practice , Maison de Santé des Trois Monts , Dommartin-les-Remiremont , France
| | - Jean-Charles Vauthier
- a Department of General Practice , Maison de Santé des Trois Monts , Dommartin-les-Remiremont , France
| | - Nicolas Gambier
- b Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology , CHRU Nancy , Nancy , France
| | - Pierre Renaud
- c Department of Pulmonary Function Testing and Exercise Physiology , CHRU Nancy , Nancy , France
| | - Bruno Chenuel
- c Department of Pulmonary Function Testing and Exercise Physiology , CHRU Nancy , Nancy , France.,d EA 3450 DevAH - Development, Adaptation and Disadvantage, Cardiorespiratory regulations and motor control , Université de Lorraine , Nancy , France
| | - Mathias Poussel
- c Department of Pulmonary Function Testing and Exercise Physiology , CHRU Nancy , Nancy , France.,d EA 3450 DevAH - Development, Adaptation and Disadvantage, Cardiorespiratory regulations and motor control , Université de Lorraine , Nancy , France
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Belli T, Crisp AH, Verlengia R. Greater muscle damage in athletes with ACTN3 R577X (RS1815739) gene polymorphism after an ultra-endurance race: a pilot study. Biol Sport 2017; 34:105-10. [PMID: 28566803 DOI: 10.5114/biolsport.2017.64583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Revised: 09/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to investigate the influence of ACTN3 R577X gene polymorphism on muscle damage responses in athletes competing in an ultra-endurance race. Twenty moderate to well-trained ultra-runners who had entered in an official 37.1 km adventure race (22.1 km mountain biking, 10.9 km trekking, 4.1 km water trekking, 30 m rope course, and orienteering) volunteered for the study. Blood samples were collected for genotyping and analysis of muscle protein levels before and after the race. Percentage changes (pre- to post-race) of serum myoglobin [XX = 5,377% vs. RX/RR = 1,666%; P = 0.005, effect size (ES) = 1.73], creatine kinase (XX = 836.5% vs. RX/RR = 455%; P = 0.04, ES = 1.29), lactate dehydrogenase (XX = 82% vs. RX/RR = 65%; P = 0.002, ES = 1.61), and aspartate aminotransferase (XX = 148% vs. RX/RR = 75%; P = 0.02, ES = 1.77) were significantly greater for XX than RX/RR genotypes. ES analysis confirmed a large magnitude of muscle damage in XX genotype ultra-runners. Therefore, athletes with the ACTN3 577XX genotype experienced more muscle damage after an adventure race. This suggests that ultra-runners with alpha-actinin-3 deficiency may be more susceptible to rhabdomyolysis and associated health complications during ultra-endurance competitions.
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
This paper examines the various nutritional challenges which athletes encounter in preparing for and participating in ultra-endurance walking and running events. Special attention is paid to energy level, performance, and recovery within the context of athletes' intake of carbohydrate, protein, fat, and various vitamins and minerals. It outlines, by way of a review of literature, those factors which promote optimal performance for the ultra-endurance athlete and provides recommendations from multiple researchers concerned with the nutrition and performance of ultra-endurance athletes. Despite the availability of some research about the subject, there is a paucity of longitudinal material which examines athletes by nature and type of ultra-endurance event, gender, age, race, and unique physiological characteristics. Optimal nutrition results in a decreased risk of energy depletion, better performance, and quicker full-recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Williamson
- Department of Exercise Science, University of Toronto, 55 Harbord Street, Toronto, ON M5S 2W6 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Background To date, little is known for pacing in ultra-endurance athletes competing in a non-stop event and in a multi-stage event, and especially, about pacing in a multi-stage event with different disciplines during the stages. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine the effect of age, sex and calendar year on triathlon performance and variation of performance by events (i.e., swimming, cycling 1, cycling 2 and running) in ‘Ultraman Hawaii’ held between 1983 and 2015. Methods Within each sex, participants were grouped in quartiles (i.e., Q1, Q2, Q3 and Q4) with Q1 being the fastest (i.e., lowest overall time) and Q4 the slowest (i.e., highest overall time). To compare performance among events (i.e., swimming, cycling 1, cycling 2 and running), race time in each event was converted in z score and this value was used for further analysis. Results A between-within subjects ANOVA showed a large sex × event (p = 0.015, η2 = 0.014) and a medium performance group × event interaction (p = 0.001, η2 = 0.012). No main effect of event on performance was observed (p = 0.174, η2 = 0.007). With regard to the sex × event interaction, three female performance groups (i.e., Q2, Q3 and Q4) increased race time from swimming to cycling 1, whereas only one male performance group (Q4) revealed a similar trend. From cycling 1 to cycling 2, the two slower female groups (Q3 and Q4) and the slowest male group (Q4) increased raced time. In women, the fastest group decreased (i.e., improved) race time from swimming to cycling 1 and thereafter, maintained performance, whereas in men, the fastest group decreased race time till cycling 2 and increased it in the running. Conclusion In summary, women pace differently than men during ‘Ultraman Hawaii’ where the fastest women decreased performance on day 1 and could then maintain on day 2 and 3, whereas the fastest men worsened performance on day 1 and 2 but improved on day 3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland; Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Luk HY, Levitt DE, Lee EC, Ganio MS, McDermott BP, Kupchak BR, McFarlin BK, Hill DW, Armstrong LE, Vingren JL. Pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine responses to a 164-km road cycle ride in a hot environment. Eur J Appl Physiol 2016; 116:2007-15. [PMID: 27522585 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-016-3452-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to examine the circulating cytokine response to a recreational 164-km road cycling event in a high ambient temperature and to determine if this response was affected by self-paced exercise time to completion. METHODS Thirty-five men and five women were divided into tertiles based on time to complete the cycling event: slowest (SLOW), moderate (MOD), and fastest (FAST) finishers. Plasma samples were obtained 1-2 h before (PRE) and immediately after (IP) the event. A high-sensitivity multiplex assay kit was used to determine the concentration of plasma anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-12, GM-CSF, IFN-γ, and TNF-α). RESULTS The concentration of plasma IL-10 increased significantly (p < 0.05) in FAST and MOD groups and had no change in the SLOW group in response to a 164-km cycling event in the hot environment. Other cytokine responses were not influenced by the Time to completion. Pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-2, GM-CSF, and TNF-α decreased; whereas, IL-6 and IL-8 increased from PRE to IP. Additionally, anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 decreased. CONCLUSIONS Completion of a 164-km cycling event induced substantial changes in circulating pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine concentrations. Time to completion appears to have a greater influence on the systemic IL-10 response than the environmental condition; however, it is possible that a threshold for absolute intensity must be reached for environmental conditions to affect the IL-10 response to exercise. Thus, cyclists from the FAST/MOD groups appear more likely to experience an acute transient immune suppression than cyclists from the SLOW group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Ying Luk
- Applied Physiology Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and Recreation, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #310769, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #305220, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA
| | - Danielle E Levitt
- Applied Physiology Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and Recreation, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #310769, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #305220, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA
| | - Elaine C Lee
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Matthew S Ganio
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Brendon P McDermott
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Brian R Kupchak
- Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Brian K McFarlin
- Applied Physiology Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and Recreation, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #310769, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #305220, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA
| | - David W Hill
- Applied Physiology Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and Recreation, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #310769, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA
| | - Lawrence E Armstrong
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, 06269, USA
| | - Jakob L Vingren
- Applied Physiology Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and Recreation, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #310769, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA. .,Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas, 1155 Union Circle #305220, Denton, TX, 76203-5017, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Knechtle B, Valeri F, Nikolaidis PT, Zingg MA, Rosemann T, Rüst CA. Do women reduce the gap to men in ultra-marathon running? Springerplus 2016; 5:672. [PMID: 27350909 PMCID: PMC4899381 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-016-2326-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to examine sex differences across years in performance of runners in ultra-marathons lasting from 6 h to 10 days (i.e. 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 144, and 240 h). Data of 32,187 finishers competing between 1975 and 2013 with 93,109 finishes were analysed using multiple linear regression analyses. With increasing age, the sex gap for all race durations increased. Across calendar years, the gap between women and men decreased in 6, 72, 144 and 240 h, but increased in 24 and 48 h. The men-to-women ratio differed among age groups, where a higher ratio was observed in the older age groups, and this relationship varied by distance. In all durations of ultra-marathon, the participation of women and men varied by age (p < 0.001), indicating a relatively low participation of women in the older age groups. In summary, between 1975 and 2013, women were able to reduce the gap to men for most of timed ultra-marathons and for those age groups where they had relatively high participation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland ; Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Fabio Valeri
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Pantelis T Nikolaidis
- Department of Physical and Cultural Education, Hellenic Army Academy, Athens, Greece
| | - Matthias A Zingg
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph A Rüst
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Knechtle B, Bragazzi NL, Rosemann T, Rüst CA. Pacing in a self-paced world record attempt in 24-h road cycling. Springerplus 2015; 4:650. [PMID: 26543784 PMCID: PMC4628007 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-015-1445-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Background Pacing strategy plays a major role in sport performance. However, there is a dearth of knowledge concerning pacing during ultra-endurance sport events. The present case study investigated the pacing of an ultra-cyclist in a self-paced attempt to break the world record in 24-h road cycling and, with all the caveats and the limitations affecting a case report, could be useful in generating hypotheses and further studies about pacing dynamics during prolonged sport performances. Case description A well experienced ultra-cyclist completed laps of 11.731 km during 24 h and the support crew recorded for each lap time and power output in Watt. The trend in cycling speed and power output across laps was investigated using regression analyses. A mixed-effects regression model including lap, ambient air temperature, air pressure, air humidity and wind speed as fixed variables was used to investigate a relationship of environmental factors with cycling speed. Discussion and evaluation The athlete achieved 896.173 km within the 24 h. He set a new world record by breaking the old record (Jure Robic, 2004, 834.77 km) by 61.403 km. He cycled at an average speed
of 37.34 km/h with an average power output of 250.2 W. The decrease in cycling speed and power output across laps could be modelled linearly. Temperature and wind speed were related to cycling speed during the whole event. There was a significant interaction air temperature × relative humidity for the whole event. Conclusions The athlete adopted a positive pacing (i.e. speed gradually declined throughout the event) and environmental factors (i.e. temperature and wind speed) influenced cycling speed during the event.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Facharzt FMH für Allgemeinmedizin, Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland ; Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), School of Public Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph A Rüst
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Vitiello D, Degache F, Saugy JJ, Place N, Schena F, Millet GP. The increase in hydric volume is associated to contractile impairment in the calf after the world's most extreme mountain ultra-marathon. Extrem Physiol Med 2015; 4:18. [PMID: 26500765 PMCID: PMC4618124 DOI: 10.1186/s13728-015-0037-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Studies have recently focused on the effect of running a mountain ultra-marathon (MUM) and their results show muscular inflammation, damage and force loss. However, the link between peripheral oedema and muscle force loss is not really established. We tested the hypothesis that, after a MUM, lower leg muscles’ swelling could be associated with muscle force loss. The knee extensor (KE) and the plantar flexor (PF) muscles’ contractile function was measured by supramaximal electrical stimulations, potentiated low- and high-frequency doublets (PS10 and PS100) of the KE and the PF were measured by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and bioimpedance was used to assess body composition in the runners (n = 11) before (Pre) and after (Post) the MUM and compared with the controls (n = 8). Results The maximal voluntary contraction of the KE and the PF significantly decreased by 20 % Post-MUM in the runners. Hydration of the non-fat mass (NF-Hyd) and extracellular water volume (Ve) were increased by 12 % Post-MUM (p < 0.001) in the runners. Calf circumference (+2 %, p < 0.05) was also increased. Significant relationships were found for percentage increases in Ve and NF-Hyd with percentage decrease in PS10 of the PF (r = −0.68 and r = −0.70, p < 0.05) and with percentage increase of calf circumference (r = 0.72 and r = 0.73, p < 0.05) in the runners. Conclusions The present study suggests that increases in circumference and in hydric volume are associated to contractile impairment in the calf in ultra-marathon runners.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damien Vitiello
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, ISSUL, Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Geopolis, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland ; Health Research Unit, School of Health Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Francis Degache
- Health Research Unit, School of Health Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jonas J Saugy
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, ISSUL, Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Geopolis, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland ; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Place
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, ISSUL, Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Geopolis, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland ; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Federico Schena
- Faculty of Motor Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Grégoire P Millet
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, ISSUL, Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Geopolis, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland ; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Rüst CA, Bragazzi NL, Signori A, Stiefel M, Rosemann T, Knechtle B. Nation related participation and performance trends in 'Norseman Xtreme Triathlon' from 2006 to 2014. Springerplus 2015; 4:469. [PMID: 26357600 PMCID: PMC4556721 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-015-1255-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the nation related participation and performance trends in triathletes competing in ‘Norseman Xtreme Triathlon’ between 2006 and 2014 using mixed models, one-way analysis of variance and multi-variate regression analyses. A total of 1594 athletes (139 women and 1455 men) originating from 34 different countries finished the race. Most of the athletes originated from Norway, Germany, Great Britain, Sweden, USA and France. In the mixed model analysis considering all finishers (n = 1594), with calendar year, sex and country as independent and overall race time as dependent variable, calendar year (p < 0.0001), sex (p < 0.0001), country (p < 0.0001) and the interaction sex × calendar year (p = 0.012) were significant. In the model where overall race time was separated in the three disciplines, we found interactions such as country × discipline (p < 0.0001), year × discipline (p < 0.0001), sex × discipline (p < 0.0001), calendar year × sex (p = 0.044), calendar year × sex × discipline (p = 0.031). Overall race time decreased every year, above all in the year 2012. Women were slower than men, but women reduced this gender gap year after year and above all in the year 2007 (p = 0.001). Athletes from Norway and Germany were faster than those from Great Britain and other countries. Split times of the discipline decreased throughout the years. In particular, the discipline having more impact on overall race time was cycling. Most of the podiums were achieved by Norwegian women and men. For women, the fastest split and transition times were achieved by Norwegian women with exception of the run where German women were faster. Norwegian men were the fastest in split and transition times although French athletes were the fastest in swimming. Across years, the annual three fastest Norwegian women improved in cycling, running, overall race time and transition times but not Norwegian and German men. British men, however, improved running split times and transition times. To summarize, most of the finishers in ‘Norseman Xtreme Triathlon’ originated from Norway and the fastest race times were achieved by Norwegian women and men. Norwegian women improved race times across years but not Norwegian men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christoph A Rüst
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), School of Public Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy ; Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), Section of Biostatistics, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy ; Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy ; Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Neurosurgery, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Alessio Signori
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), Section of Biostatistics, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Michael Stiefel
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland ; Facharzt FMH für Allgemeinmedizin, Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
van Breda K, Collins M, Stein DJ, Rauch L. The COMT val(158)met polymorphism in ultra-endurance athletes. Physiol Behav 2015; 151:279-83. [PMID: 26253211 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2015.07.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Revised: 06/27/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Chronic levels of physical activity have been associated with increased dopamine (D2) receptors resulting in increased sensitivity to dopamine release. The catechol-O-methyltransferase enzyme, responsible for dopamine degradation, contains a functional polymorphism, which plays an important role in dopamine regulation within the prefrontal cortex. This polymorphism has previously been shown to affect human cognition and personality. However, the effect of this polymorphism has not been shown in ultra-endurance athletes. AIM To examine the association of the COMT val(158)met variant with personality traits (harm avoidance, novelty seeking, reward dependence, resilience) and psychological distress (K10) of habitual physically active Ironman athletes compared to recreationally active controls. METHODS 51 ultra-endurance Ironman athletes and 56 recreationally active controls were genotyped for the catechol-O-methyltransferase val(158)met polymorphism. Of the 107 participants, 55 ultra-endurance athletes and 32 recreationally active controls completed online personality questionnaires (harm avoidance, novelty seeking, reward dependence, resilience) and a psychological distress questionnaire (K10). RESULTS The personality trait, harm avoidance (p=0.001) and psychological distress (p=0.003) were significantly lower in Ironman athlete participants. Novelty seeking was significantly higher (p=0.02) in Ironman athlete participants with a significantly higher (p=0.04) score in Met(158) homozygous allele carriers. CONCLUSION Chronic levels of physical activity, as seen in ultra-endurance athletes, show increased novelty seeking scores in Met(158) homozygous allele carriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keelyn van Breda
- Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Malcolm Collins
- Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Dan J Stein
- Department of Psychiatry, MRC Unit on Anxiety & Stress Disorders, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Laurie Rauch
- Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
Open-water ultra-distance swimming has a long history where the ‘English Channel’ (~33 km) was crossed in 1875 for the first time. Nowadays, the three most challenging open-water swims worldwide are the 21-miles (34 km) ‘English Channel Swim’, the 20.1-miles (32.2 km) ‘Catalina Channel Swim’ and the 28.5-miles (45.9 km) ‘Manhattan Island Marathon Swim’, also called the ‘Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming’. Recent studies showed that women were able to achieve men’s performance in the ‘English Channel Swim’ or to even outperform men in the ‘Manhattan Island Marathon Swim’. However, the analysis of the ‘Catalina Channel Swim’ as part of the ‘Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming’ is missing. We investigated performance and sex difference in performance for successful women and men crossing the ‘Catalina Channel’ between 1927 and 2014. The fastest woman ever was ~22 min faster than the fastest man ever. Although the three fastest women ever were ~20 min faster than the three fastest men ever, the difference reached not statistical significance (p > 0.05). Similarly for the ten fastest ever, the ~1 min difference for women was not significant (p > 0.05). However, when the swimming times of the annual fastest women (n = 39) and the annual fastest men (n = 50) competing between 1927 and 2014 were compared, women (651 ± 173 min) were 52.9 min (16 ± 12%) faster than men (704 ± 279 min) (p < 0.0001). Across years, swimming times decreased non-linearly in the annual fastest men (polynomial 2nd degree) and women (polynomial 3rd degree) whereas the sex difference decreased linearly from 52.4% (1927) to 7.1% (2014). In summary, the annual fastest women crossed the ‘Catalina Channel’ faster than the annual fastest men. The non-linear decrease in swimming times suggests that female and male swimmers have reached a limit in this event. However, the linear decrease in the sex difference may indicate that women continuously narrow the gap to men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Paulin S, Roberts J, Roberts M, Davis I. A case study evaluation of competitors undertaking an antarctic ultra-endurance event: nutrition, hydration and body composition variables. Extrem Physiol Med 2015; 4:3. [PMID: 25767697 PMCID: PMC4357189 DOI: 10.1186/s13728-015-0022-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Background The nutritional demands of ultra-endurance racing are well documented. However, the relationship between nutritional consumption and performance measures are less obvious for athletes competing in Polar conditions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate dietary intake, hydration status, body composition and performance times throughout an 800-km Antarctic race. Methods The event organisers declared that 17 competitors would participate in the South Pole race. Of the 17 competitors, pre-race data were collected from 13 participants (12 males and 1 female (M ± SD): age: 40.1 ± 8.9 years; weight: 83.9 ± 10.3 kg; and body fat percentage: 21.9 ± 3.8%). Dietary recall, body composition and urinary osmolarity were assessed pre-race, midway checkpoint and end race. Data were compared on the basis of fast finishers (the Norwegian team (n = 3) who won in a record of 14 days) and slower finishers (the remaining teams (n = 10) reaching the South Pole between 22 and 28 days). Results The percentage contribution of macronutrients to daily energy intake for all participants was as follows: carbohydrate (CHO) = 23.7% (221 ± 82 g.day−1), fat = 60.6% (251 ± 127 g.day−1) and protein = 15.7% (117 ± 52 g.day−1). Energy demands were closer met by faster finishers compared to slower finishers (5,332 ± 469 vs. 3,048 ± 1,140 kcal.day−1, p = 0.02). Average reduction in body mass throughout the race was 8.3 ± 5.5 kg, with an average loss of lean mass of 2.0 ± 4.1 kg. There was a significant negative correlation between changes in lean mass and protein intake (p = 0.03), and lean mass and energy intake (p = 0.03). End-race urinary osmolarity was significantly elevated for faster finishers compared to slower finishers and control volunteers (faster finishers: 933 ± 157 mOsmol.L−1; slower finishers: 543 ± 92 mOsmol.L−1; control: 515 ± 165 mOsmol.L−1, p = 0.04). Conclusions Throughout the race, both groups were subjected to a negative change in energy balance which partly explained reduced body mass. Carbohydrate availability was limited inferring a greater reliance on fat and protein metabolism. Consequently, loss in fat-free mass was more prevalent with insufficient protein and caloric intake, which may relate to performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott Paulin
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL10 9AB UK
| | - Justin Roberts
- Department of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge Campus, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT UK
| | - Michael Roberts
- School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, College Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL10 9AB UK
| | - Ian Davis
- National Health Service, Rendcomb, Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 7EY UK
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Rüst CA, Zingg MA, Rosemann T, Knechtle B. Will the age of peak ultra-marathon performance increase with increasing race duration? BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2014; 6:36. [PMID: 25337390 PMCID: PMC4204392 DOI: 10.1186/2052-1847-6-36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2014] [Accepted: 09/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Recent studies found that the athlete’s age of the best ultra-marathon performance was higher than the athlete’s age of the best marathon performance and it seemed that the athlete’s age of peak ultra-marathon performance increased in distance-limited races with rising distance. Methods We investigated the athlete’s age of peak ultra-marathon performance in the fastest finishers in time-limited ultra-marathons from 6 hrs to 10 d. Running performance and athlete’s age of the fastest women and men competing in 6 hrs, 12 hrs, 24 hrs, 48 hrs, 72 hrs, 144 hrs (6 d) and 240 hrs (10 d) were analysed for races held between 1975 and 2012 using analysis of variance and multi-level regression analysis. Results The athlete’s ages of the ten fastest women ever in 6 hrs, 12 hrs, 24 hrs, 48 hrs, 72 hrs, 6 d and 10 d were 41 ± 9, 41 ± 6, 42 ± 5, 46 ± 5, 44 ± 6, 42 ± 4, and 37 ± 4 yrs, respectively. The athlete’s age of the ten fastest women was different between 48 hrs and 10 d. For men, the athlete’s ages were 35 ± 6, 37 ± 9, 39 ± 8, 44 ± 7, 48 ± 3, 48 ± 8 and 48 ± 6 yrs, respectively. The athlete’s age of the ten fastest men in 6 hrs and 12 hrs was lower than the athlete’s age of the ten fastest men in 72 hrs, 6 d and 10 d, respectively. Conclusion The athlete’s age of peak ultra-marathon performance did not increase with rising race duration in the best ultra-marathoners. For the fastest women ever in time-limited races, the athlete’s age was lowest in 10 d (~37 yrs) and highest in 48 hrs (~46 yrs). For men, the athlete’s age of the fastest ever in 6 hrs (~35 yrs) and 12 hrs (~37 yrs) was lower than the athlete’s age of the ten fastest in 72 hrs (~48 yrs), 6 d (~48 yrs) and 10 d (~48 yrs). The differences in the athlete’s age of peak performance between female and male ultra-marathoners for the different race durations need further investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland ; Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland ; Facharzt FMH für Allgemeinmedizin, Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Knechtle B, Rosemann T, Lepers R, Rüst CA. A comparison of performance of Deca Iron and Triple Deca Iron ultra-triathletes. Springerplus 2014; 3:461. [PMID: 25221734 PMCID: PMC4161722 DOI: 10.1186/2193-1801-3-461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
This study intended to compare the performance of ultra-triathletes competing in a Deca Iron ultra-triathlon (i.e. 10 times 3.8 km swimming, 180 km cycling, and 42.2 km running) with the performance of athletes competing in a Triple Deca Iron ultra-triathlon (i.e. 30 times 3.8 km swimming, 180 km cycling, and 42.2 km running). Split and overall race times of six male finishers in a Deca Iron ultra-triathlon and eight male finishers in a Triple Deca Iron ultra-triathlon were analysed using multiple t-tests, linear and non-linear regression analyses, and analysis of variance. Among the 19 starters (i.e. 17 men and two women) in the Deca Iron ultra-triathlon, six men (i.e. 35.3% of all starters) finished the race. The mean swimming, cycling, running and overall race times of the six finishers across the ten days were 1:19 ± 0:09 h:min, 6:36 ± 0:19 h:min, 6:03 ± 0:47 h:min and 14:44 ± 1:17 h:min, respectively. The times of the split disciplines and overall race time increased linearly across the ten days. Total transition times did not change significantly across the days and were equals to 48 ± 8 min. Among the 22 starters (i.e. 20 men and two women) in the Triple Deca Iron ultra-triathlon, eight men (i.e. 36.4% of all starters) finished. The mean swimming, cycling, running and overall race times of the eight finishers across the 30 days were 1:11 ± 0:07 h:min, 6:19 ± 0:32 h:min, 5:34 ± 1:15 h:min and 13:44 ± 1:50 h:min, respectively. Split and overall race times showed no change across the 30 days. Total transition times showed no change across the days and were equal to 41 ± 11 min. To summarize, the daily performance decreased across the ten days for the Deca Iron ultra-triathletes (i.e. positive pacing) while it remained unchanged across the 30 days for the Triple Deca Iron ultra-triathletes (i.e. even pacing).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland ; Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Romuald Lepers
- INSERM U1093, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ulsamer S, Rüst CA, Rosemann T, Lepers R, Knechtle B. Swimming performances in long distance open-water events with and without wetsuit. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2014; 6:20. [PMID: 24891942 PMCID: PMC4041346 DOI: 10.1186/2052-1847-6-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Existing literature showed improved swimming performances for swimmers wearing wetsuits competing under standardized conditions in races held in pools on short to middle distances. Data about the influence of wetsuits on swimming performances in long and ultra-long open-water swimming races are missing. It is unknown whether the benefit of wearing wetsuits is comparable in men and women. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of wearing a wetsuit on open-water swimming performances at the 26.4 km ‘Marathon Swim in Lake Zurich’ in Lake Zurich, Switzerland, and the 3.8 km Lake Ontario Swim Team-Race (LOST-Race) in Lake Ontario, Canada. Methods Race times of the fastest female and male swimmers competing with and without wetsuit were compared using multi-level regression analyses and analysis of variance. Results In the ‘Marathon Swim’ in Lake Zurich, wearing a wetsuit had no effect on race time regarding the gender where athletes wearing a wetsuit were not faster than athletes without wetsuit. However, the ten fastest men wearing a wetsuit (410.6 ± 26.7 min) were faster (32.7%, p < 0.01) than the ten fastest women without wetsuit (544.9 ± 81.3 min). In the ‘LOST-Race’, the top ten men wearing a wetsuit (51.7 ± 2.5 min) were faster (13.2%, p < 0.01) than the top ten women wearing a wetsuit (58.5 ± 3.2 min). Additionally, the top ten men without wetsuit (52.1 ± 2.4 min) were faster (19.6%, p < 0.01) than the top ten women without wetsuit (62.3 ± 2.5 min). The top ten women wearing a wetsuit (58.5 ± 3.2 min) were faster (6.5%, p < 0.01) than top ten women without a wetsuit (62.3 ± 25 min). Conclusions These results suggest that wearing a wetsuit had a positive influence on swimming speed for both women and men but the benefit of the use of wetsuits seemed to depend on additional factors (i.e. race distance). Women seemed to benefit more from wearing wetsuits than men in longer open-water ultra-distance swimming races.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Ulsamer
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Alexander Rüst
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Romuald Lepers
- INSERM U1093, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Facharzt FMH für Allgemeinmedizin, Vadianstrasse 26, Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
This case report presents the performance of an athlete who completed for the first time in history the total distance of 33 Ironman triathlons within 33 consecutive days. The athlete finished the total distance of 7,458 km (i.e. 125 km swimming, 5,940 km cycling and 1,393 km running) within a total time of 410 h and a mean time of 12 h 27 min per Ironman distance. During the 33 days, the athlete became slower in swimming (r2 = 0.27, p = 0.0019), transition time 1 (r2 = 0.66, p < 0.001), and transition time 2 (r2 = 0.48, p < 0.0001). However, in cycling (r2 = 0.07, p = 0.13), running (r2 = 0.04, p = 0.25) and overall race time (r2 = 0.10, p = 0.069), the athlete was able to maintain his performance during the 33 days. The coefficients of variation (CV) for the split times in swimming, cycling, running and overall race times were very low (i.e. 2.7%, 3.2%, 4.7%, and 2.7%, respectively) whereas the CV for transition times 1 and 2 were considerably higher (i.e. 25.5% and 55.5%, respectively). During the 33 days, body mass decreased from 83.0 kg to 80.5 kg (r2 = 0.55, p < 0.0001). Plasma [Na+] remained within the reference range, creatine kinase, blood glucose and liver enzymes were minimally elevated above the reference range after four of five stages where blood analyses were performed. This case report shows that this athlete finished 33 Ironman triathlons within 33 consecutive days with minor variations over time (i.e. even pacing) in both split times and overall race times. This performance was most probably due to the high experience of the athlete, his pacing strategy and the stable environmental conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Facharzt FMH für Allgemeinmedizin, Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland ; Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Alexander Rüst
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Normand Martin
- Centre de Médecine Sportive de Laval, Laval, Québec Canada
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Pozzi L, Knechtle B, Knechtle P, Rosemann T, Lepers R, Rüst CA. Sex and age-related differences in performance in a 24-hour ultra-cycling draft-legal event - a cross-sectional data analysis. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2014; 6:19. [PMID: 24883191 PMCID: PMC4039327 DOI: 10.1186/2052-1847-6-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 05/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to examine the sex and age-related differences in performance in a draft-legal ultra-cycling event. Methods Age-related changes in performance across years were investigated in the 24-hour draft-legal cycling event held in Schötz, Switzerland, between 2000 and 2011 using multi-level regression analyses including age, repeated participation and environmental temperatures as co-variables. Results For all finishers, the age of peak cycling performance decreased significantly (β = −0.273, p = 0.036) from 38 ± 10 to 35 ± 6 years in females but remained unchanged (β = −0.035, p = 0.906) at 41.0 ± 10.3 years in males. For the annual fastest females and males, the age of peak cycling performance remained unchanged at 37.3 ± 8.5 and 38.3 ± 5.4 years, respectively. For all female and male finishers, males improved significantly (β = 7.010, p = 0.006) the cycling distance from 497.8 ± 219.6 km to 546.7 ± 205.0 km whereas females (β = −0.085, p = 0.987) showed an unchanged performance of 593.7 ± 132.3 km. The mean cycling distance achieved by the male winners of 960.5 ± 51.9 km was significantly (p < 0.001) greater than the distance covered by the female winners with 769.7 ± 65.7 km but was not different between the sexes (p > 0.05). The sex difference in performance for the annual winners of 19.7 ± 7.8% remained unchanged across years (p > 0.05). The achieved cycling distance decreased in a curvilinear manner with advancing age. There was a significant age effect (F = 28.4, p < 0.0001) for cycling performance where the fastest cyclists were in age group 35–39 years. Conclusion In this 24-h cycling draft-legal event, performance in females remained unchanged while their age of peak cycling performance decreased and performance in males improved while their age of peak cycling performance remained unchanged. The annual fastest females and males were 37.3 ± 8.5 and 38.3 ± 5.4 years old, respectively. The sex difference for the fastest finishers was ~20%. It seems that women were not able to profit from drafting to improve their ultra-cycling performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara Pozzi
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland ; Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | | | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Romuald Lepers
- INSERM U1093, University of Burgundy, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Dijon, France
| | - Christoph Alexander Rüst
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Rüst CA, Knechtle B, Knechtle P, Rosemann T, Lepers R. Participation and Performance Trends in Triple Iron Ultra-triathlon - a Cross-sectional and Longitudinal Data Analysis. Asian J Sports Med 2012; 3:145-52. [PMID: 23012633 PMCID: PMC3445641 DOI: 10.5812/asjsm.34605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2012] [Accepted: 05/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aims of the present study were to investigate (i) the changes in participation and performance and (ii) the gender difference in Triple Iron ultra-triathlon (11.4 km swimming, 540 km cycling and 126.6 km running) across years from 1988 to 2011. Methods For the cross-sectional data analysis, the association between with overall race times and split times was investigated using simple linear regression analyses and analysis of variance. For the longitudinal data analysis, the changes in race times for the five men and women with the highest number of participations were analysed using simple linear regression analyses. Results During the studied period, the number of finishers were 824 (71.4%) for men and 80 (78.4%) for women. Participation increased for men (r2=0.27, P<0.01) while it remained stable for women (8%). Total race times were 2,146 ± 127.3 min for men and 2,615 ± 327.2 min for women (P<0.001). Total race time decreased for men (r2=0.17; P=0.043), while it increased for women (r2=0.49; P=0.001) across years. The gender difference in overall race time for winners increased from 10% in 1992 to 42% in 2011 (r2=0.63; P<0.001). The longitudinal analysis of the five women and five men with the highest number of participations showed that performance decreased in one female (r2=0.45; P=0.01). The four other women as well as all five men showed no change in overall race times across years. Conclusions Participation increased and performance improved for male Triple Iron ultra-triathletes while participation remained unchanged and performance decreased for females between 1988 and 2011. The reasons for the increase of the gap between female and male Triple Iron ultra-triathletes need further investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Alexander Rüst
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Corresponding Author:Address: Facharzt FMH für Allgemeinmedizin Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland. E-mail:
| | | | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Romuald Lepers
- INSERM U1093, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
| |
Collapse
|