Do older athletes reach limits in their performance during marathon running?

Relationship of Testosterone, LH, Estradiol, IGF-1, and SHBG with Physical Performance of Master Athletes

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), estradiol (ES), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in master sprint (MS) and master endurance (ME) athletes. Additionally, the possible associations between these hormones, body composition, and lipid profile with athletic performance (% of performance in relation to the current world record) were analyzed. Materials and Methods: The participants were all men: (i) 34 MS (51.0 ± 6.8 years); and (ii) 32 ME (51.7 ± 9.4 years). Student's t-tests for independent samples were performed to compare all variables between groups. Results: MS had a significantly higher (p = .008) average IGF-1 (154.78 ± 29.85 ng/mL) when compared to ME (129.92 ± 25.48 ng/mL). Performance was significantly correlated with IGF-1 (r = 0.424). The MS group had a moderately lower body fat than ME athletes (MS 12.54 ± 4.07 vs. ME 14.60 ± 4.12; p = .078; d = 0.503). Conclusions: Thus, strength/power training exercise/sport seems to be more beneficial for obtaining a higher IGF-1 compared to aerobic/distance exercise/sport. In addition, LH, T, ES, and SHBG were similar between the two groups of athletes and were comparable to the reference values of younger adults.

Themes and trends in marathon performance research: a comprehensive bibliometric analysis from 2009 to 2023

Background: When marathon runners break the 2-h barrier at the finishing line, it attracts global attention. This study is aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis of publications in the field of marathon running, analyze relevant research contributors, and visualize the historical trends of marathon performance research over the past 15 years. Methods: On 8 December 2023, we extracted high-quality publication data from the Web of Science Core Collection spanning from 1 January 2009 to 30 November 2023. We conducted bibliometric analysis and research history visualization using the R language packages biblioshiny, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace. Results: A total of 1,057 studies were published by 3,947 authors from 1,566 institutions across 63 countries/regions. USA has the highest publication and citation volume, while, the University of Zurich being the most prolific research institution. Keywords analysis revealed several hotspots in marathon research over the past 3 years: (1) physiology of the elite marathon runners, (2) elite marathon training intensity and pacing strategies, (3) nutritional strategies for elite marathon runners, (4) age and sex differences in marathon performance, (5) recovery of inflammatory response and muscle damage. Conclusion: This study presents the first comprehensive bibliometric analysis of marathon performance research over the past 15 years. It unveils the key contributors to marathon performance research, visually represents the historical developments in the field, and highlights the recent topical frontiers. The findings of this study will guide future research by identifying potential hotspots and frontiers.

Gender differences on the age-related distal-to-proximal shift in joint kinetics during running

The increased running participation in women and men over 40 years has contributed to scientific interest on the age-related and gender differences in running performance and biomechanics over the last decade. Gender differences in running biomechanics have been studied extensively in young runners, with inconsistent results. Understanding how gender influences the age-related differences in running mechanics could help develop population-specific training interventions or footwear to address any potential different mechanical demands. The purpose of this study was to assess gender and age effects on lower limb joint mechanics while running. Middle-aged men (57 ± 5 years) and women (57 ± 8 years) and young men (28 ± 6 years) and women (30 ± 6 years) completed five overground running trials at a set speed of 2.7 m/s while lower limb kinematics and ground reaction forces were collected. Lower limb joint kinetics were computed, normalized to body mass and compared between age and gender groups using two-factor analyses of variance. Women reported slower average running paces than men and middle-aged runners reported slower running paces than young runners. We confirmed that young runners run with more ankle, but less hip positive work and peak positive power compared to middle-aged runners (i.e., age-related distal-to-proximal shift in joint kinetics). We also present a novel finding that women run with more ankle, but less hip peak positive power compared to men suggesting an ankle dominant strategy in women at a preferred and comfortable running pace. However, the age-related distal-to-proximal shift in joint kinetics was not different between genders.

The Influence of Footwear Longitudinal Bending Stiffness on Running Economy and Biomechanics in Older Runners

Purpose: This study assessed the effects of footwear longitudinal bending stiffness on running economy and biomechanics of rearfoot striking older runners. Methods: Nine runners over 60 years of age completed two running bouts at their preferred running pace in each of three footwear conditions: low (4.4 ± 1.8 N·m-1), moderate (5.7 ± 1.7 N·m-1), and high (6.4 ± 1.6 N·m-1) bending stiffness. Testing order was randomized and a mirror protocol was used (i.e., A,B,C,C,B,A). Expired gases, lower limb kinematics, and ground reaction forces were collected simultaneously and lower limb joint kinetics, running economy (i.e., VO2), leg stiffness, and spatio-temporal variables were calculated. Results: Running economy was not different among stiffness conditions (p = 0.60, p = 0.53 [mass adjusted]). Greater footwear stiffness reduced step length (p = 0.046) and increased peak vertical ground reaction force (p = 0.019) but did not change peak ankle plantarflexor torque (p = 0.65), peak positive ankle power (p = 0.48), ankle positive work (p = 0.86), propulsive force (p = 0.081), and leg stiffness (p = 0.46). Moderate footwear stiffness yielded greater peak negative knee power compared to low (p = 0.04) and high (p = 0.03) stiffness. Conclusions: These novel findings demonstrate that increasing footwear longitudinal bending stiffness using flat carbon fiber inserts does not improve running economy and generally does not alter lower limb joint mechanics of rearfoot strike runners over 60 years. Future studies should investigate how other footwear characteristics (e.g., midsole material, plate location, and sole curvature) influence economy and biomechanics in this population.

Carbohydrate-Protein drink is effective for restoring endurance capacity in masters class athletes after a two-Hour recovery

BACKGROUND

Carbohydrate (CHO) and carbohydrate-protein co-ingestion (CHO-P) have been shown to be equally effective for enhancing glycogen resynthesis and subsequent same-day performance when CHO intake is suboptimal (≤0.8 g/kg). Few studies have specifically examined the effect of isocaloric CHO vs CHO-P consumption on subsequent high-intensity aerobic performance with limited time to recover (≤2 hours) in masters class endurance athletes.

METHODS

This was a randomized, double-blind between-subject design. Twenty-two male masters class endurance athletes (age 49.1 ± 6.9 years; height 175.8 ± 4.8 cm; body mass 80.7 ± 8.6 kg; body fat (%) 19.1 ± 5.8; VO_2peak 48.6 ± 6.7 ml·kg·min^-1) were assigned to consume one of three beverages during a 2-hour recovery period: Placebo (PLA; electrolytes and water), CHO (1.2 g/kg bm), or CHO-P (0.8 g/kg bm CHO + 0.4 g/kg bm PRO). All beverages were standardized to one liter (~32 oz.) of total fluid volume regardless of the treatment group. During Visit #1, participants completed graded exercise testing on a cycle ergometer to determine VO₂peak and peak power output (PPO, watts). Visit #2 consisted of familiarization with the high-intensity protocol including 5 × 4 min intervals at 70-80% of PPO with 2 min of active recovery at 50 W, followed by a time to exhaustion (TTE) test at 90% PPO. During Visit#3, the same high-intensity interval protocol with TTE was conducted pre-and post-beverage consumption.

RESULTS

A one-way ANCOVA indicated a significant difference among the group means for the posttest TTE (F_2,18 = 6.702, p = .007, ƞ² = .427) values after adjusting for the pretest differences. TTE performance in the second exercise bout improved for the CHO (295.48 ± 24.90) and CHO-P (255.08 ± 25.07 sec) groups. The water and electrolyte solution was not effective in restoring TTE performance in the PLA group (171.13 ± 23.71 sec).

CONCLUSIONS

Both CHO and CHO-P effectively promoted an increase in TTE performance with limited time to recover in this sample of masters class endurance athletes. Water and electrolytes alone were not effective for restoring endurance capacity during the second bout of exhaustive exercise.

Spatiotemporal and kinematic adjustments in master runners may be associated with the relative physiological effort during running

Master runners maintain a similar running economy to young runners, despite displaying biomechanical characteristics that are associated with a worse running economy. This apparent paradox may be explained by a greater physiological effort-i.e., percentage of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2-max)-that master runners perform at a given speed. Moreover, age-related responses to non-exhaustive sustained running are yet underexplored. The aims of this study were, therefore, to examine if biomechanical adjustments in master runners are physiological-effort dependent, and to explore the age-related biomechanical changes during a non-exhaustive sustained run. Young (23.9 ± 6; n = 12) and master (47.3 ± 6.9; n = 12) runners performed a sustained 30-minute treadmill run matched for relative physiological effort (70% VO2-max), while spatiotemporal and lower-limb kinematic characteristics were collected during the 1st and 30th minute. Group differences were observed in step/stride length, knee touch-down angle, and knee stiffness. However, both groups of runners had a similar step frequency, vertical center of mass oscillation, and knee range of motion. Age-related adjustment in these latter characteristics may thus not be an inevitable result of the aging process but rather a strategy to maintain running economy. The relative physiological effort of runners should, therefore, be considered when examining age-related adjustments in running biomechanics.

Rationale and design of the Birkebeiner Ageing Study - a prospective cohort study of older endurance athletes

BACKGROUND

While regular physical activity is associated with reduced mortality and morbidity in general populations, health outcomes and functional capacity related to upholding strenuous endurance exercise beyond the age of 65 years are only sparsely studied. The aim of this study is to assess associations of prolonged strenuous endurance sport practice with ageing, functional decline, morbidity and longevity among older recreational endurance athletes, during long-term follow-up.

METHODS

Prospective cohort study of older recreational endurance athletes in Norway. All skiers aged 65 years and older who participated in a long-distance endurance competition, the annual 54-km Birkebeiner cross-country ski race in 2009 or 2010, were invited. The participants answered an extensive baseline questionnaire about lifestyle habits, including leisure-time physical activity and endurance sport participation, diseases, medication use and physical and mental health, with follow-up questionnaires planned every fifth year until 2029. New participants may be invited with the aim to increase the study size. Endpoints such as all-cause and disease-specific mortality, incidence and cumulative prevalence of diseases, use of medication, physical and mental health and functional decline will be assessed subsequently. Out of 658 invited skiers (51 women), 551(84%) completed the baseline questionnaire and were included in the study. The mean age was 68.8 years (median 68, range 65- 90). At baseline, the participants had completed the Birkebeiner race for an average of 16.6 years and reported an average of 33.4 years of regular endurance exercise, with one out of five reporting at least 50 years of exercise. In all, 479 (90%) reported that they were still practicing leisure-time physical activity of moderate or vigorous intensity at least twice weekly. The prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and diseases was low.

DISCUSSION

This prospective study of a cohort of recreational athletes exposed to prolonged and strenuous endurance exercise, could complement population-based studies by providing data on associations between life-long endurance sport participation, aging, functional decline and health outcomes during long-term follow-up.

Effects of running a marathon on sclerostin and parathyroid hormone concentration in males aged over 50

The aim of our study was to verify whether running a marathon (32nd Wroclaw Marathon) was associated with changes in sclerostin and intact PTH (iPTH) concentration in middle-aged males. We enrolled 33 males who completed the marathon race. Blood samples were taken 60 minutes before (V1), immediately after (V2), and 7 days after the run (V3). The mean serum sclerostin concentration was 42.4 ± 10.8 pmol/L at V1, increased to 62.9 ± 12.6 pmol/L at V2 (t= -11.206; p < 0.001) and returned to baseline in V3 (t = 8.344; p < 0.001, V3 vs. V2). A similar trend was recorded for iPTH (t= -7.440; p < 0.001, for V2 vs. V1; t = 6.229; p < 0.001, for V3 vs. V2), at V3, iPTH levels remained significantly higher than V1 (t= -2.759; p = 0.010). The results of our study suggest that, in middle-aged males, running a marathon affects skeletal metabolism by activating two counteracting mechanisms, although temporarily overlapping: first, by a sudden inhibition of bone formation, through induction sclerostin expression and, secondly, by a long-lasting induction of PTH, which also guarantees the maintenance of adequate circulating levels of calcium. The net effect would be the maintenance of adequately high levels of circulating calcium to be used for neuromuscular activity and muscle contraction.

Running Endurance in Women Compared to Men: Retrospective Analysis of Matched Real-World Big Data

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.

Relationship between running performance and weather in elite marathoners competing in the New York City Marathon

It is well known that weather and pacing have an influence on elite marathon performance. However, there is limited knowledge about the effect of weather on running speed in elite marathoners. The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to investigate potential associations between running speed and weather variables in elite runners competing in the 'New York City Marathon' between 1999 and 2019. Data from all official female and male finishers with name, sex, age, calendar year, split times at 5 km, 10 km, 15 km, 20 km, 25 km, 30 km, 35 km, 40 km and finish and hourly values for temperature (°Celsius), barometric pressure (hPa), humidity (%) and sunshine duration (min) between 09:00 a.m. and 04:00 p.m. were obtained from official websites. A total of 560,731 marathon runners' records were available for analysis (342,799 men and 217,932 women). Pearson and Spearman correlation analyses were performed between the average running speed and the weather variables (temperature, pressure, humidity and sunshine). Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regressions were also performed. The runner´s records were classified into four performance groups (all runners, top 100, top 10 and top 3) for comparison. Differences in running speed between the four performance groups were statistically significant (p < 0.05) for both men and women. Pearson (linear) correlation indicated a weak and positive association with humidity in the top 10 (r = 0.16) and top 3 (r = 0.13) performance groups that the running speed of the elite runners was positively correlated with humidity. Regarding sunshine duration, there was a weak and positive correlation with the running speed of the elite groups (r = 0.16 in the top 10 and r = 0.2 in the top 3). Spearman correlation (non-linear) identified a weak but negative correlation coefficient with temperature in all runners' groups. Also, non-linear positive correlation coefficients with humidity and sunshine can be observed in the Spearman matrixes. A Multivariate Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression analysis showed no predictive power of weather factors. For elite runners competing in the 'New York City Marathon' between 1999 and 2019, the main findings were that elite runners became faster with increasing humidity and sunshine duration while overall runners became slower with increasing temperature, increasing humidity and sunshine duration. Weather factors affected running speed and results but did not provide a significant predictive influence on performance.

The Performance, Physiology and Morphology of Female and Male Olympic-Distance Triathletes

Sex differences in triathlon performance have been decreasing in recent decades and little information is available to explain it. Thirty-nine male and eighteen female amateur triathletes were evaluated for fat mass, lean mass, maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max), ventilatory threshold (VT), respiratory compensation point (RCP), and performance in a national Olympic triathlon race. Female athletes presented higher fat mass (p = 0.02, d = 0.84, power = 0.78) and lower lean mass (p < 0.01, d = 3.11, power = 0.99). VO2 max (p < 0.01, d = 1.46, power = 0.99), maximal aerobic velocity (MAV) (p < 0.01, d = 2.05, power = 0.99), velocities in VT (p < 0.01, d = 1.26, power = 0.97), and RCP (p < 0.01, d = 1.53, power = 0.99) were significantly worse in the female group. VT (%VO2 max) (p = 0.012, d = 0.73, power = 0.58) and RCP (%VO2 max) (p = 0.005, d = 0.85, power = 0.89) were higher in the female group. Female athletes presented lower VO2 max value, lower lean mass, and higher fat mass. However, females presented higher values of aerobic endurance (%VO2 max), which can attenuate sex differences in triathlon performance. Coaches and athletes should consider that female athletes can maintain a higher percentage of MAV values than males during the running split to prescribe individual training.

Training Habits and Injury Rate in Masters Female Runners

Background

The number of masters females that choose long-distance running as a form of exercise is growing exponentially. As clinicians working with these athletes, it is important to understand their training habits and how these habits relate to running related injuries (RRI).

Purpose

The primary aim of this study was to identify the training behaviors and cross training engagement in masters female runners. A secondary aim was to determine RRI rates and their relationship to training behaviors.

Methods

A 31-question online survey was completed by 68 masters females aged 45 and older. Answers from 18 of the 31 questions were used to address the specific aims of the study. Descriptive variables and Chi Square analyses were used to synthesize the data.

Results

The majority of the cohort ran less than 30 miles week distributed over three days/week. Most participated in cross-training activity that included strength training, cycling, and swimming. Injury was prevalent in this group of runners with many experiencing more than one RRI over their running history. The area of the hip and gluteal region was the most common site of injury.

Conclusion

This cohort of runners trained in a relatively smart manner, with a moderate volume of running mileage, and utilization of cross-training. Many had experienced some form of injury that halted their running for a period of time.

Level of Evidence

Level 3 - Case Controlled, retrospective survey.

A Moderated Mediation Model of Wellbeing and Competitive Anxiety in Male Marathon Runners

Running marathons is an increasingly popular activity with an ever-increasing number of events and participants. Many participants declare that they pursue a variety of goals by running, namely, the maintenance of good health, the development of strength and improvement of fitness, the management of emotions, and the achievement of resilience and psychological wellbeing (PWB). The research has examined marathon running, like many other sports, and has studied various factors that reduce athletic performance, such as the experience of anxiety, and that enhance such performance, such as an increase in general wellbeing. This article reports the results of a study on the experience of competitive anxiety among 238 male marathon runners who participated in Seville's (Spain) 26th Marathon race on February 23, 2020, and investigates the relationship between anxiety and key dimensions of wellbeing as measured by the Spanish-adapted 20-item PWB Scale. We hypothesized that participating athletes who rated high on the dimensions of PWB would experience lower levels of competitive anxiety with respect to this race. We also proposed that PWB would function as a mediating factor with respect to the experience of anxiety. The results show, as hypothesized, that marathon running enhances wellbeing and reduces anxiety. The data showed significant negative correlations between four of five wellbeing dimensions and the three types of anxiety measured, namely, somatic anxiety, worry, and concentration-impairing anxiety. Other findings supported our hypothesis that wellbeing, as measured, functions as a mediating factor for the moderation of competitive anxiety. Generalization of these findings is limited by the fact that the low number of female participants recruited did not permit valid statistical analyses in this respect. It is known that both anxiety and wellbeing are subjects to variation by gender. The future inclusion of male and female subjects in equivalent studies will undoubtedly add valuable information concerning the dynamics of anxiety and wellbeing. The implications of these findings and the limitations of the study will be discussed.

Sex Differences in Endurance Running

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 (VO_2max) 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 VO_2max 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.

"Venice marathon": participation of female Master Athletes shows a constant increase from 2003 to 2019

The marathon is the most classic Olympic running event. In several cities worldwide it has become very popular with participation increasing during the last 20 years, particularly by Master Athletes. There are evidences that long-distance running could provide considerable health benefits for older runners, specifically risk reduction of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, depression, and falls. Several studies have focused on the distribution of participants and their performance on famous marathons such as those of Berlin, Boston and New York. In this preliminary study we have analyzed data from several editions of the Venice marathon, a famous Italian race that attracts people from every corner of the world. The Venice marathon is listed in Abbott World Marathon Majors Wanda Age Group World Ranking and is Bronze Label certificated by IAAF, and Gold Label by FIDAL. The marathon starts outside Venice near Stra, then runs along the Brenta Riviera to Venice where the runners cross the canals over floating bridges set up for the race. For this study we analyzed data of the Venice marathon describing gender distribution in 17 editions (2003-2019), but groups of age-categories and their nationality only in 13 editions from 2007 to 2019. The analysis shows a steady increase in female participation, from 2003 to 2019.

Protein Requirements for Master Athletes: Just Older Versions of Their Younger Selves

It is established that protein requirements are elevated in athletes to support their training and post-exercise recovery and adaptation, especially within skeletal muscle. However, research on the requirements for this macronutrient has been performed almost exclusively in younger athletes, which may complicate their translation to the growing population of Master athletes (i.e. > 35 years old). In contrast to older (> 65 years) untrained adults who typically demonstrate anabolic resistance to dietary protein as a primary mediator of the ‘normal’ age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, Master athletes are generally considered successful models of aging as evidenced by possessing similar body composition, muscle mass, and aerobic fitness as untrained adults more than half their age. The primary physiology changes considered to underpin the anabolic resistance of aging are precipitated or exacerbated by physical inactivity, which has led to higher protein recommendations to stimulate muscle protein synthesis in older untrained compared to younger untrained adults. This review puts forth the argument that Master athletes have similar muscle characteristics, physiological responses to exercise, and protein metabolism as young athletes and, therefore, are unlikely to have protein requirements that are different from their young contemporaries. Recommendations for protein amount, type, and pattern will be discussed for Master athletes to enhance their recovery from and adaptation to resistance and endurance training.

Factors Associated With Half- and Full-Marathon Race-Related Injuries: A 3-Year Review

OBJECTIVE

To better evaluate the relationships between training, demographics, and injury, this study sought to define race-related injury risk factors for half- and full-marathon runners.

DESIGN

This 3-year, observational cross-sectional study included adults who participated in a half or full marathon. Prerace and 2-week postrace surveys collected data on demographics, training factors, and injuries.

SETTING

This study took place during a nationally recognized marathon affiliated with a local hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Runners were recruited during the Expo in the days before the race. Postrace surveys were returned by 1043 half marathoners and 624 full marathoners (response rate, 83%).

INTERVENTIONS

This was an observational study; independent variables included demographic data and race year.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

The primary outcome was race-related injury that occurred during the race or within 2 weeks after the race.

RESULTS

Race-related injuries were reported by 24% of half marathoners and 30% of full marathoners. For half and full marathoners, respectively, significant factors for injuries were previous injury, lower peak weekly training mileage, and lower weekly mileage before race training. Factors significant for only half-marathon injuries were younger age, female sex, shorter distance of longest training run, and no formal training program. Factors significant for only full-marathon injuries were higher body mass index, fewer days running per week, and fewer years of running experience.

CONCLUSIONS

Previous running injuries, undertraining, and inexperience increased race-related injury risk; women had higher risk than men. Decreased risk of injury was associated with training loads of greater than 23 miles/week for half marathoners and 40 miles/week for full marathoners.

Pro-Healthy Diet Properties and Its Determinants among Aging Masters Athletes

Qualitative dietary assessments are not common in aging athletes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate diet quality and its determinants among aging masters athletes. Eighty-six participants of the 8th World Masters Indoor Athletics Championships were enrolled in the study (age range 36-65 years). Three subgroups were distinguished to represent countries with different eating habits. Body composition was measured by bioelectrical impedance. Eating habits and diet quality were assessed using the Dietary Habits and Nutrition Beliefs Questionnaire (KomPAN®, Warszawa, Poland), and the Pro-healthy Diet Index (pHDI-10). Dietary quality determinants were identified by a multiple regression model conducted for each subgroup separately (Great Britain, France, and Poland). The results showed that none of the subgroups adhered to the reference intake of products with beneficial health outcomes. This was particularly noticeable in the insufficient consumption of whole grain products, dairy, and fish. The fish and vegetables consumption frequency significantly differentiated the eating habits of the studied groups. Diet quality determinants varied depending on the group. However, in each of them, fruit consumption was one of the components of a good-quality diet. The obtained results can be used by institutions providing health education among the elderly to develop an appropriate strategy aimed at changing inappropriate eating habits.

Increased Participation and Decreased Performance in Recreational Master Athletes in "Berlin Marathon" 1974-2019

The aspect of participation and performance trends in marathon running has been investigated mainly in marathons held in the United States of America (e.g., “New York City Marathon,” “Boston Marathon”), but not for the fastest course in the world, the “Berlin Marathon” held in Berlin, Germany. This study aimed to examine trends in participation and performance in the “Berlin Marathon” on all its previous 46 editions from 1974 to 2019, the largest dataset ever studied in this event with 696,225 finishers (after data cleaning). Athletes in all age groups increased their participation, except for male athletes aged 20–49 years and athletes of both sexes above 79 years of age. This overall increase in participation was more pronounced in women, but still, there are more men than women participating in “Berlin Marathon” nowadays. All age group athletes decreased their performance across years overall, whereas the top ten recreational athletes improved their performance over the years. Our findings improved the knowledge about the evolution of male and female marathoners across calendar years, especially for the fastest marathon race in the world, the “Berlin Marathon.”

The Role of Environmental Conditions on Master Marathon Running Performance in 1,280,557 Finishers the 'New York City Marathon' From 1970 to 2019

Aim: This study investigated the influence of weather conditions on running performance in female and male age group runners in the largest marathon in the world, the “New York City Marathon.”

Methods: The analysis included data from 1,280,557 finishers the “New York City Marathon” from the years 1970 to 2019. Linear mixed models for men and women finishers with race time (min) as dependent variable and 5-year age groups, temperature, wind and relative humidity tertiles (low, medium, high) as independent factors and finisher as random intercept was performed. Additional models with an interaction between age groups and one weather variable each were performed.

Results: Temperature was positively associated with race time while wind speed and humidity were negatively associated (p < 0.001). Men were significantly greater affected wind speed and humidity than women (p < 0.001 for interaction) but not by temperature (p = 0.17 for interaction). With an average of 8 min longer race time, high temperature had the greatest effect on race time. The effect of high humidity on race time was significantly increased in 40–59 years old men and 25–65 years old women. High temperatures had an increased effect on race time in 30–64 years old men and 40–64 years old women. The inverse association between race time and high wind speed was pronounced in finishers with younger age.

Conclusion: Performance was lower on days with high temperature, low humidity and low wind speed. Men seemed to benefit more from higher humidity and wind speed than women. Aged (70 +) finishers were not greater affected by high temperatures.

Trends in Weather Conditions and Performance by Age Groups Over the History of the Berlin Marathon

The effect of different environmental conditions such as temperature, wind, barometric pressure, and precipitation has been well investigated in elite marathoners, but not by age categories (i.e., age group marathoners). The aim of the study was to investigate the potential influence of environmental conditions such as temperature, precipitation, and atmospheric pressure on marathon performance in age group marathoners competing in the ‘Berlin Marathon’ from 1974 to 2019. A total of 869,474 valid finisher records were available for analysis, of which 711,136 correspond to males and 158,338 to females. The influence of temperature, atmospheric pressure, and precipitation on marathon race times was investigated in age group marathoners grouped in 5-year-intervals. Within the 46 years of Berlin marathons under investigation, there was some level of precipitation for 18 years, and 28 years without any rain. Sunshine was predominant in 25 of the events, whilst in the other 21 years, cloud cover was predominant. Marathon race times were significantly and positively correlated with age (i.e., older runners were slower than younger runners) where the correlation was higher for males than for females. Marathon race times were significantly and positively correlated with both the hours of sunshine and the daily maximum temperature. The fastest marathon runners (meaning the minimum times) achieved the fastest race times on race days with higher maximum temperatures (i.e., 15–30°C). Daily maximum temperatures showed an influence on age group marathoners from age group 35–40 years and older. Higher precipitation levels impaired performance across most age groups. In summary, higher daily maximum temperatures (i.e., >15°C) and higher precipitation levels impaired performance of master marathoners (i.e., 35–40 years and older) competing in the ‘Berlin Marathon’ in the last 45 years. Master marathoners should start in marathon races with temperatures < 15°C and no precipitation in order to achieve a fast marathon race time.

From Athens to Sparta-37 Years of Spartathlon

(1) Background: Recent studies analyzed the participation and performance trends of historic races such as the oldest ultra-marathon (Comrades) or the oldest 100-km ultra-marathon (Biel). One of the toughest and historic ultra-marathons in the world is the ‘Spartathlon’ (246-km ultra-marathon from Athens to Sparta). The present study aimed to analyze the trends in participation and performance of this race. (2) Methods: Different general linear models were applied as follows: the first model was a two-way ANOVA (Decade × Sex), with separate models for all participants and for only the top five finishers in each race; the second model was a two-way ANOVA (Age Group × Sex); the third model was a two-way ANOVA (Nationality × Sex). (3) Results: Between 1982 and 2019, 3504 ultra-marathoners (3097 men and 407 women) officially finished the Spartathlon at least once. Athletes from Japan were the majority with 737 participants, followed by far by runners from Germany (n = 393), Greece (n = 326), and France (n = 274). The nations with the highest numbers of athletes amongst the top five performers were Japan (n = 71), followed by Germany (n = 59), and Great Britain (n = 31). Runners from the USA were the fastest in men, and runners from Great Britain were the fastest in women. Female and male runners improved performance across the decades. The annual five fastest women and men improved their performance over time. Runners achieved their best performance earlier in life (20–29 and 30–39 years) than female runners (30–39 and 40–49 years). Runners in age group 30–39 years were the fastest for all nationalities, except for Greece. (4) Conclusions: Successful finishers in the Spartathlon improved performance in the last four decades and male runners achieved their best performance ~10 years earlier in life than female runners.

Endurance exercise and the risk of cardiovascular pathology in men: a comparison between lifelong and late-onset endurance training and a non-athletic lifestyle - rationale and design of the Master@Heart study, a prospective cohort trial

Introduction

Low and moderate endurance exercise is associated with better control of cardiovascular risk factors, a decreased risk of coronary artery disease and atrial fibrillation (AF). There is, however, a growing proportion of individuals regularly performing strenuous and prolonged endurance exercise in which the health benefits have been challenged. Higher doses of endurance exercise have been associated with a greater coronary atherosclerotic plaque burden, risk of AF and myocardial fibrosis (MF).

Methods and analysis

Master@Heart is a multicentre prospective cohort study aiming to assess the incidence of coronary atherosclerosis, AF and MF in lifelong endurance athletes compared to late-onset endurance athletes (initiation of regular endurance exercise after the age of 30 years) and healthy non-athletes.

The primary endpoint is the incidence of mixed coronary plaques. Secondary endpoints include coronary calcium scores, coronary stenosis >50%, the prevalence of calcified and soft plaques and AF and MF presence. Tertiary endpoints include ventricular arrhythmias, left and right ventricular function at rest and during exercise, arterial stiffness and carotid artery intima media thickness.

Two hundred male lifelong athletes, 200 late-onset athletes and 200 healthy non-athletes aged 45–70 will undergo comprehensive cardiovascular phenotyping using CT, coronary angiography, echocardiography, cardiac MRI, 12-lead ECG, exercise ECG and 24-hour Holter monitoring at baseline. Follow-up will include online tracking of sports activities, telephone calls to assess clinical events and a 7-day ECG recording after 1 year.

Ethics and dissemination

Local ethics committees approved the Master@Heart study. The trial was launched on 18 October 2018, recruitment is complete and inclusions are ongoing.

Trial registration number

NCT03711539.

Impact of training volume and experience on amateur Ironman triathlon performance

PURPOSE

To investigate the association between training volume, sleep time, signs and symptoms of excessive training (overtraining), and  previous triathlon experience with overall and split race times in the Ironman distance triathlon.

METHODS

Ninety-nine triathletes (19 women and 80 men) answered an online survey containing questions about anthropometric characteristics (body mass and height), weekly training volume (hours per day and days per week), previous experience in Ironman distance triathlon race, and signs and symptoms of excessive training. Data of race times of all participants were collected by a single race (the Ironman Brazil 2019 - Florianópolis). All surveys were collected between 28 and 30 days before the race. The athlete was instructed to answer the questions according to what was happening in the week before completing the survey.

RESULTS

Total race time did not differ among those who trained up to 14 h per week (11:28:46±01:54:30 h:min:sec), between 15 and 20 h per week (11:37:31±01:20:26 h:min:sec) or more than 20 h per week (11:30:18±01:31:28 h:min:sec) (p = 0.922). Total race time of the triathletes who presented (12:42:22±01:49:36 h:min:sec) or no (11:23:06±01:29:02 h:min:sec) unintentional body mass loss (p = 0.006), feeling (12:46:17±02:03:13 h:min:sec) or no (11:24:09±01:28:07 h:min:sec) of decreased performance (p = 0.009) or feeling (12:08:58±01:47:12 h:min:sec) or no (11:16:34±01:24:53 h:min:sec) loss of energy (p = 0.011) in the week prior to the race were significantly different. Triathletes who had a previous experience in Ironman races achieved a better performance (11:15:21±01:32:04 h:min:sec) than those without previous experience (12:06:38±01:32:10 h:min:sec) (p = 0.010).

CONCLUSION

In summary, high volumes of training (more than 20 h per week), when performed forty days before a race, may not have a positive impact on performance compared to lower volumes of training (up to 14 h per week). However, athletes who had a previous experience in Ironman race presented better results in swimming splits and overall race time. Moreover, the presence of overtraining symptoms, such as unintentional loss of weight, sensation of fatigue and/or performance decrease impact negatively triathlon performance.

Sub 3-Hour Marathon Runners for Five Consecutive Decades Demonstrate a Reduced Age-Related Decline in Performance

Estimation of the age-related decline in athletic performance by analyzing age-group world record performances presents an inherent limitation because the records generally belong to different individuals. Longitudinal studies describing the changes in performance with advancing age for the same individuals with a consistent training regimen are more appropriate to determine age-related changes in performance. The aim of this longitudinal study was to examine the age-related decline in running performance of sub 3-h marathoners for five consecutive calendar decades. The best marathon performances for each decade from the 1970s to the 2010s were analyzed for 40 sub 3-h runners (39 males and 1 female). The cohort mean personal best performance was 2 h 23 min ± 9 min at an age of 28.6 ± 4.7 years. The mean difference in age between the first and the last sub 3-h marathon races was 32.9 ± 1.6 years. The time difference in marathon performance between the personal best and the worst performance during the 5th decade was 26 ± 9 min, corresponding to a mean increase of 1 min 4 s per year, i.e., a decrease in running speed of 0.67 ± 0.29% per year. These results suggest that with consistent training and racing regimens, it is possible to limit the age-related decline in marathon performance to less than 7% per decade at least until 60 years of age. Further studies are required to verify if such a low rate of age-related decline in endurance performance could be maintained after 60 years of age.

Distribution of body fat is associated with physical performance of male amateur triathlon athletes

BACKGROUND

Endurance sports are strongly associated with maximum oxygen uptake, anaerobic threshold, running economy and body fat percentage. Despite the importance for performance of the low-fat mass being a consensus in the literature, there are no data about the importance of the pattern of fat distribution. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the association between fat mass distribution with triathlon performance and physiological determinants of performance: maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), ventilatory threshold (AT) and running economy (RE), and to verify the predictive value for performance of gynoid or android fat mass distribution.

METHODS

Thirty-nine triathletes (38.8±6.9 years, 174.8±6.5cm and 74.3±8.8kg) were evaluated for anthropometric (total body mass, fat mass, lean mass, android and gynoid fat mass) and physiological (VO2max, AT and RE) parameters. Split and overall race times were registered.

RESULTS

Overall race time relationship with gynoid fat mass (r=.529, p<.05) was classified as moderate higher than and with android fat mass (r=.416, p<.05) was classified as low. All split times and overall race time presented significant positive correlation with only total fat mass (%) (r =.329 to .574, p<.05) and with gynoid fat mass (%) (r=.359 to .529, p<.05). Overall race time can be better predicted by gynoid fat mass (ß=0.529, t=4.093, p<0.001, r2=0.28) than by android fat mass (ß =0.416, t=2.997, p=0.005, r2=0.17).

CONCLUSIONS

Fat mass distribution is associated with triathlon performance, and the gynoid fat pattern is worse for triathlon performance than the android pattern.

An Analysis of Participation and Performance of 2067 100-km Ultra-Marathons Worldwide

This study aimed to analyze the number of successful finishers and the performance of the athletes in 100-km ultra-marathons worldwide. A total of 2067 100-km ultra-marathon races with 369,969 men and 69,668 women competing between 1960 and 2019 were analyzed, including the number of successful finishers, age, sex, and running speed. The results showed a strong increase in the number of running events as well as a strong increase in the number of participants in the 100-km ultra-marathons worldwide. The performance gap disappeared in athletes older than 60 years. Nevertheless, the running speed of athletes over 70 years has improved every decade. In contrast, the performance gap among the top three athletes remains persistent over all decades (F = 83.4, p < 0.001; _pη² = 0.039). The performance gap between the sexes is not significant in the youngest age groups (20–29 years) and the oldest age groups (>90 years) among recreational athletes and among top-three athletes over 70 years. In summary, especially for older athletes, a 100-km ultra-marathon competition shows an increasing number of opponents and a stronger performance challenge. This will certainly be of interest for coaches and athletes in the future, both from a scientific and sporting point of view.

Metabolomics profiling of plasma, urine and saliva after short term training in young professional football players in Saudi Arabia

Metabolomics profiling was carried out to observe the effect of short-term intensive physical activity on the metabolome of young Saudi professional football players. Urine, plasma and saliva were collected on 2 days pre- and post-training. An Orbitrap Exactive mass spectrometer was used to analyze the samples. A reversed-phase (RP) column was used for the analysis of non-polar plasma metabolites, and a ZIC-pHILIC column was used for the analysis of plasma, saliva and urine. mzMine was used to extract the data, and the results were modelled using Simca-P 14.1 software. There was no marked variation in the metabolite profiles between pre day 1 and 2 or between post day 1 and 2 according to principal components analysis (PCA). When orthogonal partial least squares (OPLSDA) modelling was also used, and then models could be fitted based on a total number of metabolites of 75, 16 and 32 for urine, plasma and saliva using hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC) and 6 for analysis of plasma with reversed-phase (RP) chromatography respectively. The present study concludes that acylcarnitine may increase post-exercise in football players suggesting that they may burn fat rather than glucose. The levels of carnitine metabolites in plasma post-exercise could provide an important indicator of fitness.

THE VALUE OF TREADMILL EXERCISE TEST PARAMETERS TO PREDICT THE MARATHON PERFORMANCE OF YOUNG AND MIDDLE-AGED RECREATIONAL ATHLETES IN CHINA

Objectives: This study will evaluate the results of parameters measured during a treadmill exercise test to predict marathon performances. Methods: We studied 171 Chinese recreational athletes who participated in marathons or half-marathons (42.2[Formula: see text]k or 21.1[Formula: see text]k, respectively) between October 2016 and December 2017. The participants completed a survey that included questions about demographics and training, and they underwent a treadmill exercise test according to the Bruce protocol. The number of years in training, mean weekly hours of training, mean weekly training volume, and performance time in subsequent marathon events were recorded and analyzed in this study. Results: The total exercise times achieved on the treadmill test were significantly longer for men compared to women ([Formula: see text]). The performance times in the half-marathons were significantly shorter for men compared to women ([Formula: see text]). Training volume was the only independent predictor of total exercise time on the treadmill and performance time in marathons and half-marathons (all [Formula: see text]). The value of the total exercise time on the treadmill to predict performance times in half-marathons ([Formula: see text]) was superior to full marathons ([Formula: see text]) and significantly better in study subjects aged 30–39 years ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) and 40–49 years ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) compared to study subjects aged 20–29 years and 50–59 years. The percentage of decrease in the maximal heart rate (MHR) at the end of one minute of recovery time was negatively correlated with performance times in marathons. Conclusions: The total exercise time achieved during an exhaustive treadmill exercise test and percentage of decrease in the MHR at the end of one minute of recovery time are accessible parameters that can help athletes manage their expectations and adjust their training plans. A large study that includes additional countries is needed to confirm the value of treadmill exercise test results for predicting marathon performance.

Age and training volume influence joint kinetics during running

Recently, we proposed the hypothesis that weekly running volume and preferred running pace may play a role in preserving ankle joint kinetics in middle-age runners as ankle joint kinetics were generally similar in young and middle-aged runners with similar running volume and preferred pace. To further address this hypothesis, we compared lower extremity joint kinetics between high and low training volume runners in both young and middle-aged groups. Joint kinetics calculated from 3D kinematic and ground reaction force data during over-ground running at 2.7 m·s^-1 from young and middle-aged runners who ran low or high weekly volume were analyzed. A two-factor analysis of variance was used to compare joint kinetics between age and running volume groups. Positive hip work was greater in middle-aged compared to young runners (P = .005). Plantarflexor torque (P = .009) and positive ankle work (P = .042) were greater in young compared to middle-aged runners. Positive ankle work was also greater in the high compared to the low volume group (P = .021). Finally, age by volume interactions were found for knee extensor torque (P = .024), negative knee work (P = .018), and positive knee work (P = .019) but not for ankle and hip joint kinetics. These findings suggest less distal-to-proximal difference in positive joint work with high running volume in both young and middle-aged runners as a result of greater power generation at the ankle. Given the age main effects, our findings are also the first to suggest the age-related distal-to-proximal shift in joint kinetics appears in middle-aged runners.

Performance Differences Between the Sexes in the Boston Marathon From 1972 to 2017

Knechtle, B, Di Gangi, S, Rüst, CA, and Nikolaidis, PT. Performance differences between the sexes in the Boston Marathon from 1972 to 2017. J Strength Cond Res 34(2): 566-576, 2020-The differences between the sexes in marathon running have been investigated for athletes competing in world class-level races. However, no information exists about changes in these differences since the first women officially began participating in marathons. We examined trends in participation and performance in the Boston Marathon from 1972 to 2017. A total of 371,250 different finishers (64% men) and 553,890 observations-with 187,998 (34%) being of women and 365,892 (66%) of men-were analyzed using Generalized Additive Mixed Models. The number of finishers increased over the years. Female participation started at 2.81% in 1972 and reached 45.68% in 2016. Considering all finishers, men (03:38:42 ± 00:41:43 h:min:s) were overall faster than women (04:03:28 ± 00:38:32 h:min:s) by 10.7%. Average performance worsened over the years, but the differences between the sexes decreased. For the annual 10 fastest runners, performance improved with a decrease in speed difference (18.3% overall, men: 02:13:30 ± 00:04:08 h:min:s vs. women: 02:37:42 ± 00:17:58 h:min:s). For the annual winners, performance improved with a decrease in speed difference (15.5% overall, men: 02:10:24 ± 00:03:05 h:min:s vs. women: 02:30:43 ± 00:11:05 h:min:s). For the near-elite finishers from the 21st to the 100th place and from the 101st to the 200th place, women's performance improved with a decrease in the difference to men. In summary, the trend in performance over the years depended on the methodological approach (i.e., all vs. annual 10 fastest finishers vs. annual winners), but the difference between the sexes decreased in all instances. Although men were 10.7% faster than women, the fastest men (i.e., top 10 and winners) increased the gap between men and women by an average of 18.3% for the annual 10 fastest and 15.5% for the annual winners.

The Determinants of Marathon Performance: An Observational Analysis of Anthropometric, Pre-race and In-race Variables

Researchers investigating the determinants of marathon performance have previously focused on pre-race (e.g. training) or in-race (e.g. pacing) variables, but not both. This cross-sectional study, therefore, sought to elucidate the relationship between training behaviours, in-race pacing and anthropometric variables with eventual marathon finish time. A self-report questionnaire collecting athletes' anthropometrics, training behaviours and recent race times was administered to 260 participants in the 2018 Dublin Marathon. Participants' race numbers were cross referenced with in-race split times and finish times to determine their race performance. The accuracy or pragmatism of participants' target finish time was calculated using a 'predicted' time based on their training and previous race performances and subtracting this value from their eventual finish time. Multiple regression analysis examined the influence of age, body mass index (BMI), marathon experience, training history, target finish time pragmatism and in-race pace variance on marathon performance. The model was statistically significant and predicted marathon finish time F(7,252) = 217.761, p < 0.0005, adj. R2 = 0.858. Marathon experience (p = 0.01, Beta = 0.06), a pragmatic target finish time (p < 0.0005, Beta = -0.36), training history (p < 0.0005, Beta = 0.76) and in-race pace variance (p < 0.0005, Beta = 0.26) made statistically significant contributions to the overall regression model. A marathoners' training history accounts for the greatest variance in their overall performance, followed by the pragmatism of their target finish time and their in-race pace variance. This study provides the first indication of the combined relative importance of anthropometric, training and pacing variables to marathon performance.

Predictors of long-distance race performance in master runners

Peak aerobic power (V .O2peak) and parameters related to training are associated with long-distance running performance in master athletes. Running economy (RE) predicts performance in younger runners, but its relationship to racing ability in older athletes is unclear. Allometrically scaled RE (alloV .O2; ml kg -0.66 min-1), energy cost (EC; kcal kg-1 km-1), and percent of V .O2peak (%V .O2peak) required in a submaximal bout represent RE more accurately than V .O2 does. The VDOT score, estimating V .O2peak and RE, can be used to compare races of different distances.

Purpose

To determine predictors of temperature-converted VDOT in master runners training for a long-distance race (10-26.2 mi).

Methods

Twenty-three master runners (age 57±9 years; eight females) performed treadmill marathon-intensity-effort (MIE) and V .O2peak tests within four weeks of their goal race. The MIE occurred at 88% of predicted maximum heart rate, which corresponds to estimated marathon intensity. Participants completed online training-history surveys. Forward stepwise multiple linear regression was used to find key predictors of VDOT. The alpha level for significance was .05.

Results

Converted VDOT was significantly associated with three-year peak weekly training distance (3YP) (r = 0.454, p = .039), V .O2peak (r = 0.845, p = .000), alloV .O2 (r = 0.623, p = .005), and EC (r = -0.528, p = .018). The best-fitting model included V .O2peak and 3YP (r = 0.898).

Conclusion

Physiological and training factors are related to race performance in master runners. The best predictors of VDOT are V .O2peak and 3YP. Training to enhance these variables may improve distance-running performance in masters.

Nutrition for Master Athletes: Is There a Need for Specific Recommendations?

Master athletes are often considered exemplars of successful aging, thanks to their capacity to maintain a high sports performance during their entire life. A high training capacity, regular participation in sporting competitions, and delayed alterations in body composition and physiological capacities have been listed among the main factors contributing to impressive master athletes' performances. However, there is a paucity of data on the metabolism and dietary habits of master athletes, and the question of whether they need to adapt their nutrition to the aging process remains open. Herein, the authors presented a contemporary overview of the metabolic challenges associated with aging, including the risk of low energy availability, anabolic resistance, and periods of metabolic crisis due to forced immobilization. After assembling scientific evidence to show that master athletes must adapt their dietary intake, the authors proposed a summary of nutritional recommendations for master athletes and suggested the next stage of research.

Pacing During 200-m Competitive Masters Swimming

Breen, D, Powell, C, and Anderson, R. Pacing during 200-m competitive masters swimming. J Strength Cond Res 34(7): 1903-1910, 2020-Pacing strategies are key to overall performance outcome, particularly in swimming given the large resistive properties of water. However, no studies examining how swimming stroke, gender, age, or performance level affect pacing strategies during 200-m races. This study aimed to examine masters athletes pacing strategies categorized by stroke, gender, age, and performance level. Data were retrieved from World and European masters swimming championships and contained data for 4,272 performances. Performances were coded for stroke, gender, age, and performance classification (PC). Performance classification was based on comparison to the appropriate masters world record. Performances were then normalized, with split times being expressed as a percentage faster or slower than average 50-m split time to determine relative pace. Coefficient of variation (CV) of 50-m time was examined across splits. The main effect for stroke was examined at each split, whereas gender, age, and PC were examined for split-1 pace and CV. An alpha level of 0.05 was set to denote statistical significance. A main effect for stroke was identified at each split (all p < 0.001; (Equation is included in full-text article.)-split-1 = 0.292; (Equation is included in full-text article.)-split-2 = 0.040; (Equation is included in full-text article.)-split-3 = 0.058; (Equation is included in full-text article.)-split-4 = 0.162). A main effect for PC was identified for split-1 pace and CV within all strokes (all p < 0.001), except for breaststroke (both p > 0.775). Masters athletes exhibit different pacing patterns across strokes, whereas lower ranked athletes also display less even pacing and a faster relative start compared with higher-ranked athletes. Individual analyses of pacing strategies may be necessary.

Can the Performance Gap between Women and Men be Reduced in Ultra-Cycling?

This study examined a large dataset of ultra-cycling race results to investigate the sex difference in ultra-cycling performance (100 to 500 miles) according to age and race distance. Data from the time period 1996-2018 were obtained from online available database of the ultra-cycling marathon association (UMCA), including distance-limited ultra-cycling races (100, 200, 400, and 500 miles). A total of 12,716 race results were analyzed to compare the performance between men and women by calendar year, age group (18-34, 35-44, 45-59, and 60+ years), and race distance. Men were faster than women in 100 and 200 mile races, but no sex differences were identified for the 400 and 500 mile races. The performance ratio (average cycling speed_men/average cycling speed_women) was smaller in the 200 mile races compared to the 100 mile races and remained stable in the 400 and 500 mile races. In all race distances, the difference in average cycling speed between women and men decreased with increasing age. The gender gap in performance was closed in several distance-limited ultra-cycling races, such as the 400 and 500 mile races.

Exercise Recommendations for the Athlete With Coronary Artery Disease

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

We provide a framework for formulating exercise prescriptions for those with CAD in order to achieve the "optimal" dose of exercise for each individual.

RECENT FINDINGS

Multiple epidemiological studies demonstrate that exercise is inversely associated with atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (CAD), yet the risk of an acute coronary event is transiently elevated during vigorous exercise. In turn, CAD is the most common cause of exercise-related sudden cardiac death (SCD) in older athletes. When prescribing exercise recommendations for athletes with CAD, we should maintain equipoise between the benefits derived from sports participation and the risk of an adverse cardiac event. Athletes are not immune from atherosclerotic CAD, and we should perform risk assessments regardless of physical and athletic prowess. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing may be a useful tool to develop individualized exercise regimens for athletes with CAD.

The relationships between age and running performance variables in master runners

Purpose

Peak aerobic capacity (V̇O2peak) declines with age, but running economy (RE) may not. We evaluated VO2peak and RE in master runners and determined whether age is associated with these measures.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, runners completed two running tests within four weeks of a goal race of 10-26.2 miles. Subjects ran for five min at 88% of predicted maximum heart rate, approximating a marathon-intensity effort (MIE), then performed a V̇O2peak test. Running economy in the MIE was measured using oxygen cost with body mass scaled allometrically (alloV̇O2); energy cost (EC), determined using caloric equivalents; and percent of V̇O2peak (%V̇O2peak). Pearson's correlations were used to determine relationships between age and running performance variables.

Results

Runners (n = 31, 13 females; mean age 54.9 ± 8.4 years) had a mean VO2peak of 52.5 ± 7.9 ml O2 kg-1 min-1. Age was significantly correlated with V̇O2peak (r = - 0.580, p = 0.001) and alloV̇O2 (r = - 0.454, p = 0.034). Age was related to EC in females (r = 0.649, p = 0.042) and MIE V̇O2 in males (r = - 0.600, p = 0.039).

Conclusions

In this population, age was negatively associated with V̇O2peak and alloV̇O2. Females showed a positive relationship between age and EC, while males had a negative correlation between age and MIE V̇O2. Aerobic capacity declines with age, but there may be sex differences in age-related alterations to submaximal running.

Can marathon running improve knee damage of middle-aged adults? A prospective cohort study

Objectives

To evaluate the short-term impact of long-distance running on knee joints using MRI.

Methods

82 healthy adults participating in their first marathon underwent 3T (Tesla) MRI of both knees 6 months before and half a month after the marathon: 71 completed both the 4 month-long standardised training programme and the marathon; and 11 dropped-out during training and did not run the marathon. Two senior musculoskeletal radiologists graded the internal knee structures using validated scoring systems. Participants completed Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score questionnaires at each visit for self-reporting knee function.

Results

Premarathon and pretraining MRI showed signs of damage, without symptoms, to several knee structures in the majority of the 82 middle-aged volunteers. However, after the marathon, MRI showed a reduction in the radiological score of damage in: subchondral bone marrow oedema in the condyles of the tibia (p=0.011) and femur (p=0.082). MRI did also show an increase in radiological scores to the following structures: cartilage of the lateral patella (p=0.0005); semimembranosus tendon (p=0.016); iliotibial band (p<0.0001) and the prepatellar bursa (p=0.016).

Conclusion

Improvement to damaged subchondral bone of the tibial and femoral condyles was found following the marathon in novice runners, as well as worsening of the patella cartilage although asymptomatic. This is the most robust evidence to link marathon running with knee joint health and provides important information for those seeking to understand the link between long distance running and osteoarthritis of the main weight-bearing areas of the knee.

Too much too early? An analysis of worldwide childhood ultramarathon participation and attrition in adulthood

BACKGROUND

Physical inactivity is associated with chronic disease and premature death, but excessive exercise can also lead to injury. Ultramarathon running is popular among adults but has not been assessed in children. To analyze ultramarathon participation in children and to determine if they continue running ultramarathons into adulthood provide some evidence of associated health risks.

METHODS

Race results databases were used to identify ultramarathon finishers under the age of 19 between 1960-2017. Participation trends across calendar years, age groups and different race distances were analyzed and continued participation into adulthood examined.

RESULTS

A total of 7775 finishes by 5418 individual children were recorded worldwide with an increase in ultramarathon finishers over time (P<0.0001), with the greatest number among older age groups (>16 years) and the 50 and 100 km race distances. Less than 25% of childhood ultramarathon runners continued running ultramarathons into adulthood and approximately 12% continued beyond 20 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Childhood participants has been growing exponentially over the last 20 years. While few of those children continue to complete ultramarathons into adulthood, the finding that some have continued well into adulthood suggests there is no obligate serious adverse physical impairment resulting from childhood ultramarathon participation.

Cardiac rehabilitation in elderly athletes. Analysis of eldery participation in Wizz Air Cluj-Napoca Marathon

Cardiac rehabilitation remains an indispensable tool of the cardiologist’s arsenal for improving cardiovascular health in his patients. The range of applications of cardiac rehabilitation has increased over time. In recent years outstanding athletic performances of elderly people have been reported. In this article we present the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation for elderly population and for elderly athletes. We also make an analysis of the elderly participation in WizzAir Cluj-Napoca Marathon: number of finishers, best running time, evolution of running time over years, male-to-female ratio participation and results. Key words: cardiac rehabilitation, elderly, marathon, semimarathon, Wizz Air,

Force-velocity characteristics and maximal anaerobic power in male recreational marathon runners

The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship of force-velocity (F-v) characteristics with age and race time in marathon runners. One hundred thirty-five male marathon runners (age 44.2 ± 8.8 years, height 176 ± 6 cm, body mass 24.7 ± 2.6 kg.m^-2 and personal record 4:02 ± 0:45 h:min), separated into eight age groups (<30, 30-35, ., 55-60, >60 years), performed an F-v test on a cycle ergometer consisted of four 7s sprints. The older age groups had the lowest scores in maximal pedalling velocity (v₀; p < 0.001, η_p² = 0.244), relative (rPmax; p = 0.001, η_p² = 0.176) and absolute maximal power (Pmax; p = 0.009, η_p² = 0.135), whereas no difference in maximal force (F₀; p = 0.558, η_p² = 0.044) was shown. Race time correlated moderately with F₀ (r = 0.31, p < 0.001) and Pmax (r = 0.30, p = 0.001). The small magnitude of age-related differences in anaerobic power among most age groups indicated that humans without muscle strength/power training might maintain anaerobic power indices till their sixties.

The "New York City Marathon": participation and performance trends of 1.2M runners during half-century

The aim of the present study was to examine trends in participation, performance, age and nationality during a ~ 50-years period in the largest dataset ever studied in the "New York City Marathon". We analysed 1,174,331 finishers (women, n= 349,145, age 39.7 ± 8.7 years; men, n= 825,186, 41.7 ± 9.2 years). The overall participation increased across calendar years for all nationalities, and this increase was more pronounced in women, which resulted in a decreasing men-to-women ratio. Men were faster and older than women. Ethiopians and Kenyans were the fastest and youngest in women and men, respectively. Japanese were the slowest and Germans were the oldest in both sexes. Race time increased across years. Coaches and fitness trainers should be aware of these trends and should emphasize the development of training programs for older and slower runners.

The Role of Environmental Conditions on Marathon Running Performance in Men Competing in Boston Marathon from 1897 to 2018

This study investigated the effects of weather conditions on male performance during the Boston Marathon from 1897 to 2018. A total of 383,982 observations from 244,642 different finishers were analysed using Generalized Additive Mixed Models. All runners, annual top 100 finishers and annual top ten finishers were considered. Weather conditions, on race day, were: average air temperature (°C), precipitations (mm), wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) (°C), wind speed (km/h), wind direction (N, S, W, E) and pressure (hPa). These effects were examined in multi-variable models with spline smooth terms in function of calendar year. Temperature, when increasing by 1 °C, was related to worsened performance for all groups (i.e., by 00:01:53 h:min:sec for all finishers, p < 0.001). Wind coming from the West, compared to wind coming from other directions, was the most favourable for performance of all groups of finishers. Increasing precipitations worsened performances of top 100 (estimate 00:00:04 h:min:sec, p < 0.001) and top 10 finishers (estimate 00:00:05 h:min:sec, p < 0.001). Wind speed, when increasing by 1 km/h, was related to worsened performance for all finishers (estimate 00:00:19 h:min:sec, p < 0.001), but not for top 100 group, where performances were 00:00:09 h:min:sec faster, p < 0.001. Pressure and WBGT were examined in uni-variable models: overall, performances worsened as pressure and WBGT increased. Our findings contributed to the knowledge about the effect of weather conditions on performance level in male marathon runners.