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Tiemeier L, Nikolaidis PT, Chlíbková D, Wilhelm M, Thuany M, Weiss K, Knechtle B. Ultra-Cycling- Past, Present, Future: A Narrative Review. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2024; 10:48. [PMID: 38679655 PMCID: PMC11056358 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-024-00715-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ultra-endurance events are gaining popularity in multiple exercise disciplines, including cycling. With increasing numbers of ultra-cycling events, aspects influencing participation and performance are of interest to the cycling community. MAIN BODY The aim of this narrative review was, therefore, to assess the types of races offered, the characteristics of the cyclists, the fluid and energy balance during the race, the body mass changes after the race, and the parameters that may enhance performance based on existing literature. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar using the search terms 'ultracycling', 'ultra cycling', 'ultra-cycling', 'ultra-endurance biking', 'ultra-bikers' and 'prolonged cycling'. The search yielded 948 results, of which 111 were relevant for this review. The studies were classified according to their research focus and the results were summarized. The results demonstrated changes in physiological parameters, immunological and oxidative processes, as well as in fluid and energy balance. While the individual race with the most published studies was the Race Across America, most races were conducted in Europe, and a trend for an increase in European participants in international races was observed. Performance seems to be affected by characteristics such as age and sex but not by anthropometric parameters such as skin fold thickness. The optimum age for the top performance was around 40 years. Most participants in ultra-cycling events were male, but the number of female athletes has been increasing over the past years. Female athletes are understudied due to their later entry and less prominent participation in ultra-cycling races. A post-race energy deficit after ultra-cycling events was observed. CONCLUSION Future studies need to investigate the causes for the observed optimum race age around 40 years of age as well as the optimum nutritional supply to close the observed energy gap under consideration of the individual race lengths and conditions. Another research gap to be filled by future studies is the development of strategies to tackle inflammatory processes during the race that may persist in the post-race period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Tiemeier
- Centre for Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine, Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Daniela Chlíbková
- Centre of Sports Activities, Brno University of Technology, 61669, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Matthias Wilhelm
- Centre for Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine, Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Katja Weiss
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Medbase St. Gallen Am Vadianplatz, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001, St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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Valenti MT, Braggio M, Minoia A, Dorelli G, Bertacco J, Bertoldo F, Cominacini M, De Simone T, Romanelli MG, Bhandary L, Mottes M, Dalle Carbonare L. Effects of a 4400 km ultra-cycling non-competitive race and related training on body composition and circulating progenitors differentiation. Lab Invest 2022; 20:397. [PMID: 36058924 PMCID: PMC9441096 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03591-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Background NorthCape4000 (NC4000) is the most participated ultra-endurance cycling race. Eight healthy male Caucasian amateur cyclists were evaluated: (a) before starting the preparation period; (b) in the week preceding NC4000 (after the training period); (c) after NC4000 race, with the aim to identify the effects of ultra-cycling on body composition, aerobic capacity and biochemical parameters as well as on the differentiation of progenitor cells. Methods Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) assessed body composition; cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) evaluated aerobic capacity. Differentiation of circulating progenitor cells was evaluated by analyzing the modulation in the expression of relevant transcription factors. In addition, in vitro experiments were performed to investigate the effects of sera of NC4000 participants on adipogenesis and myogenesis. The effects of NC4000 sera on Sestrins and Sirtuin modulation and the promotion of brown adipogenesis in progenitor cells was investigated as well. Two-tailed Student’s paired-test was used to perform statistical analyses. Results We observed fat mass decrease after training as well as after NC4000 performance; we also recorded that vitamin D and lipid profiles were affected by ultra-cycling. In addition, our findings demonstrated that post-NC4000 participant’s pooled sera exerted a positive effect in stimulating myogenesis and in inducing brown adipogenesis in progenitor cells. Conclusions The training program and Ultra-cycling lead to beneficial effects on body composition and biochemical lipid parameters, as well as changes in differentiation of progenitor cells, with significant increases in brown adipogenesis and in MYOD levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Valenti
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37100, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Braggio
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro, 10, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Arianna Minoia
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro, 10, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Dorelli
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro, 10, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Jessica Bertacco
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro, 10, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesco Bertoldo
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro, 10, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Mattia Cominacini
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro, 10, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Tonia De Simone
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37100, Verona, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Romanelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37100, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Monica Mottes
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, 37100, Verona, Italy
| | - Luca Dalle Carbonare
- Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Piazzale Scuro, 10, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, 37134, Verona, Italy.
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Gauckler P, Kesenheimer JS, Kronbichler A, Kolbinger FR. Edema-like symptoms are common in ultra-distance cyclists and driven by overdrinking, use of analgesics and female sex - a study of 919 athletes. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2021; 18:73. [PMID: 34863204 PMCID: PMC8643017 DOI: 10.1186/s12970-021-00470-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ultra-endurance cyclists regularly report various extents of bodily decline during long-distance bicycle rides, including potential kidney function-related symptoms such as swelling of body parts and urine changes. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of these symptoms in a representative cohort of ultra-endurance cyclists and shed light on potential predictors related to the ride, the rider and the rider’s behavior. Methods Between November 26 and December 14, 2020, 1350 people participated in an online survey investigating potential kidney-related symptoms of ultra-distance cycling. Frequency and severity of edema-like (“swelling”) symptoms and perceived changes in urine output, concentration and quality were associated with ride-related factors, demographic parameters and rider behavior-related variables. Results A total of 919 participants met the predefined inclusion criteria. The majority (N = 603, 65.6%) stated that they suffered from at least one potential kidney function-related symptom, out of which 498 (54.2%) stated one or more edema-like (“swelling”) symptoms. In correlational and multiple regression analyses, female sex, intake of analgesics and drinking strategies correlated with swelling symptoms. Further analyses indicated that drinking due to thirst and/or drinking adapted to ambient sweating and temperature negatively correlated with swelling symptoms, whereas “drinking as much as possible” enhanced these. Intake of analgesics was moderately positively correlated with swelling symptoms. Conclusions According to our survey, edema-like symptoms occur in the majority of ultra-distance cyclists and female sex, drinking strategy and intake of analgesic drugs are major predictors thereof. Studies are needed to investigate the underlying pathophysiological processes of such symptoms. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12970-021-00470-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Gauckler
- Department of Internal Medicine IV (Nephrology and Hypertension), Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Andreas Kronbichler
- Department of Internal Medicine IV (Nephrology and Hypertension), Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Fiona R Kolbinger
- Department of Visceral, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
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Guex K, Serain E, Gremion G, Besson C, Faiss R, Majo J, Degache F. Participating In The Race Across AMerica In A Team Of Eight Cyclists: Do Not Neglect Crew Preparation. Open Access J Sports Med 2019; 10:161-169. [PMID: 31807092 PMCID: PMC6839592 DOI: 10.2147/oajsm.s219124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Race Across AMerica (RAAM) is considered as one of the longest, and most difficult cycling races in the world. It can be performed in solo or in relay of two, four or eight persons. Purpose/method The aim of the present study was to investigate several physiological, perceptual and psychological responses before, during and after RAAM in a team of eight amateur cyclists. Because logistics of all team is demanding and complex, crew members have followed the same testing procedure. Results The main result is that parameters were globally not altered to a greater extent in cyclists than in crew members over the course of the RAAM, and that all variables returned to pre-race levels 1 week after the end of the race in both groups. In crew, body fat was decreased (p < 0.05) at mid-race (Mid) vs 1 week before the RAAM (Pre) (−1.5%) and total body water was increased (p < 0.05) at Mid vs Pre (+2.5%). In pre-relay quadriceps strength in cyclists was significantly lower (p < 0.05) at Mid vs Pre (41.6 ± 9.1 vs 45.0 ± 11.2 N, d = 0.36). Therefore, performing the race with eight well-prepared amateur cyclists seems to decrease potential risks on health. In crew, quadriceps strength remained stable at each assessment time but general fatigue increased all along the race. Anger was increased (p < 0.05) at Mid vs Pre in crew. Conclusion The most important message of this study is that crew members for a team of eight require adequate and sufficient preparation and training. Roles and responsibilities need to be thoroughly defined; individuals need to know each other beforehand and they must be prepared for sleep deprivation. The results of this study show the importance of the preparation of two teams: crew members, as well as cyclists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenny Guex
- School of Health Sciences (HESAV), University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Emilie Serain
- School of Health Sciences (HESAV), University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gerald Gremion
- Department of Sports Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Cyril Besson
- Department of Sports Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Raphael Faiss
- Institute of Sports Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jocelyne Majo
- School of Management and Engineering Vaud (HEIG-VD), University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO), Delémont, Switzerland
| | - Francis Degache
- School of Health Sciences (HESAV), University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO), Lausanne, Switzerland.,Institute of Sports Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Therapeutic and Performance Sports Institute, MotionLab, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Nikolaidis PT, Veniamakis E, Rosemann T, Knechtle B. Nutrition in Ultra-Endurance: State of the Art. Nutrients 2018; 10:nu10121995. [PMID: 30558350 PMCID: PMC6315825 DOI: 10.3390/nu10121995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 12/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Athletes competing in ultra-endurance sports should manage nutritional issues, especially with regards to energy and fluid balance. An ultra-endurance race, considered a duration of at least 6 h, might induce the energy balance (i.e., energy deficit) in levels that could reach up to ~7000 kcal per day. Such a negative energy balance is a major health and performance concern as it leads to a decrease of both fat and skeletal muscle mass in events such as 24-h swimming, 6-day cycling or 17-day running. Sport anemia caused by heavy exercise and gastrointestinal discomfort, under hot or cold environmental conditions also needs to be considered as a major factor for health and performance in ultra-endurance sports. In addition, fluid losses from sweat can reach up to 2 L/h due to increased metabolic work during prolonged exercise and exercise under hot environments that might result in hypohydration. Athletes are at an increased risk for exercise-associated hyponatremia (EAH) and limb swelling when intake of fluids is greater than the volume lost. Optimal pre-race nutritional strategies should aim to increase fat utilization during exercise, and the consumption of fat-rich foods may be considered during the race, as well as carbohydrates, electrolytes, and fluid. Moreover, to reduce the risk of EAH, fluid intake should include sodium in the amounts of 10–25 mmol to reduce the risk of EAH and should be limited to 300–600 mL per hour of the race.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pantelis T Nikolaidis
- Laboratory of Exercise Testing, Hellenic Air Force Academy, 13671 Dekelia, Greece.
- Exercise Physiology Laboratory, 18450 Nikaia, Greece.
| | - Eleftherios Veniamakis
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Technological Educational Institute, 72300 Sitia, Greece.
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland.
- Medbase St. Gallen Am Vadianplatz, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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Muros JJ, Sánchez-Muñoz C, Hoyos J, Zabala M. Nutritional intake and body composition changes in a UCI World Tour cycling team during the Tour of Spain. Eur J Sport Sci 2018; 19:86-94. [PMID: 30016187 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2018.1497088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to quantify the food intake of an International Cyclist Union (UCI) World Tour professional cyclist team and to analyse changes in body composition during the Tour of Spain. Nine male professional road cyclists (31.3 ± 3.0 years) volunteered to participate in the study. Nutritional data were collected each day throughout the 3-week Tour by two trained investigators who weighed the food ingested by the cyclists. Mean nutritional intake of the cyclists was as follows: carbohydrate, 12.5 ± 1.8 g/kg/day of body weight (BW) (65.0 ± 5.9%); fat, 1.5 ± 0.5 g/kg/day BW (17.9 ± 5.6%); and protein, 3.3 ± 0.3 g/kg/day BW (17.1 ± 1.6%). Intake of all micronutrients, except for folate, vitamin D and potassium (which were 78.7%, 46% and 84% of Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA), respectively), exceeded the RDA. Height, weight, skinfolds, circumferences and diameters were taken following the guidelines outlined by the International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry. Body density, body fat percentage, muscle mass, total muscle mass and fat mass of the arms and thighs were calculated. Percentage body fat, fat mass and upper arm fat mass significantly decreased (p < .05) after the Tour independent of the equation method used in the calculations. Total muscle mass remained unchanged. Generally, this sample of cyclists consumed more protein and less fat than the recommended amount and had low weight, BMI and fat mass. It is suggested that sports nutritionists design personalised diets in order to maintain a correct proportion of nutrients as well as controlling possible anthropometrical changes that could affect performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Joaquín Muros
- a Department of Nutrition and Food Science, School of Pharmacy , University of Granada , Granada , Spain.,b Cycling Research Center , Granada , Spain
| | - Cristóbal Sánchez-Muñoz
- b Cycling Research Center , Granada , Spain.,c Department of Physical Education, School of Sport Science , University of Granada , Melilla , Spain
| | | | - Mikel Zabala
- b Cycling Research Center , Granada , Spain.,d Movistar Cycling Team , Spain.,e Department of Physical Education, School of Sport Science , University of Granada , Granada , Spain
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Papadopoulou SK, Xyla EE, Methenitis S, Feidantsis KG, Kotsis Y, Pagkalos IG, Hassapidou MN. Nutrition strategies before and during ultra-endurance event: A significant gap between science and practice. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2017; 28:881-892. [DOI: 10.1111/sms.13006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. K. Papadopoulou
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics; Technological Institute of Thessaloniki; Thessaloniki Greece
| | - E. E. Xyla
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics; Technological Institute of Thessaloniki; Thessaloniki Greece
| | - S. Methenitis
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics; Technological Institute of Thessaloniki; Thessaloniki Greece
- Athletics Laboratory; School of Physical Education and Sport Science; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Athens Greece
| | - K. G. Feidantsis
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics; Technological Institute of Thessaloniki; Thessaloniki Greece
- Department of Biology; Aristotle University of Thessaloniki; Thessaloniki Greece
| | - Y. Kotsis
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics; Faculty of Health Sciences and Education; Harokopio University; Athens Greece
| | - I. G. Pagkalos
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics; Technological Institute of Thessaloniki; Thessaloniki Greece
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering; Aristotle University of Thessaloniki; Thessaloniki Greece
| | - M. N. Hassapidou
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics; Technological Institute of Thessaloniki; Thessaloniki Greece
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Pollastri L, Lanfranconi F, Tredici G, Schenk K, Burtscher M, Gatterer H. Body fluid status and physical demand during the Giro d’Italia. Res Sports Med 2016; 24:30-8. [DOI: 10.1080/15438627.2015.1126273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Pollastri
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Tredici
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Kai Schenk
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, EURAC research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Martin Burtscher
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Hannes Gatterer
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Sánchez-Muñoz C, Zabala M, Muros JJ. Nutritional intake and anthropometric changes of professional road cyclists during a 4-day competition. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2015; 26:802-8. [DOI: 10.1111/sms.12513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Sánchez-Muñoz
- Department of Physical Education; School of Sport Science; University of Granada; Granada Spain
| | - M. Zabala
- Department of Physical Education; School of Sport Science; University of Granada; Granada Spain
| | - J. J. Muros
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science; School of Pharmacy; University of Granada; Granada Spain
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Chlíbková D, Knechtle B, Rosemann T, Žákovská A, Tomášková I, Shortall M, Tomášková I. Changes in foot volume, body composition, and hydration status in male and female 24-hour ultra-mountain bikers. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2014; 11:12. [PMID: 24661412 PMCID: PMC3994394 DOI: 10.1186/1550-2783-11-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of running and cycling on changes in hydration status and body composition during a 24-hour race have been described previously, but data for 24-hour ultra-mountain bikers are missing. The present study investigated changes in foot volume, body composition, and hydration status in male and female 24-hour ultra-mountain bikers. METHODS We compared in 49 (37 men and 12 women) 24-hour ultra-mountain bikers (ultra-MTBers) changes (Δ) in body mass (BM). Fat mass (FM), percent body fat (%BF) and skeletal muscle mass (SM) were estimated using anthropometric methods. Changes in total body water (TBW), extracellular fluid (ECF) and intracellular fluid (ICF) were determined using bioelectrical impedance and changes in foot volume using plethysmography. Haematocrit, plasma [Na+], plasma urea, plasma osmolality, urine urea, urine specific gravity and urine osmolality were measured in a subgroup of 25 ultra-MTBers (16 men and 9 women). RESULTS In male 24-hour ultra-MTBers, BM (P < 0.001), FM (P < 0.001), %BF (P < 0.001) and ECF (P < 0.05) decreased whereas SM and TBW did not change (P > 0.05). A significant correlation was found between post-race BM and post-race FM (r = 0.63, P < 0.001). In female ultra-MTBers, BM (P < 0.05), %BF (P < 0.05) and FM (P < 0.001) decreased, whereas SM, ECF and TBW remained stable (P > 0.05). Absolute ranking in the race was related to Δ%BM (P < 0.001) and Δ%FM in men (P < 0.001) and to Δ%BM (P < 0.05) in women. In male ultra-MTBers, increased post-race plasma urea (P < 0.001) was negatively related to absolute ranking in the race, Δ%BM, post-race FM and Δ%ECF (P < 0.05). Foot volume remained stable in both sexes (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Male and female 24-hour ultra-MTBers experienced a significant loss in BM and FM, whereas SM remained stable. Body weight changes and increases in plasma urea do not reflect a change in body hydration status. No oedema of the lower limbs occurred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Chlíbková
- Centre of Sports Activities, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of General Practise and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of General Practise and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alena Žákovská
- Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ivana Tomášková
- Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Iva Tomášková
- SurGal clinic s.r.o., Center for Sports Medicine, Brno, Czech Republic
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Chlíbková D, Knechtle B, Rosemann T, Žákovská A, Tomášková I. The prevalence of exercise-associated hyponatremia in 24-hour ultra-mountain bikers, 24-hour ultra-runners and multi-stage ultra-mountain bikers in the Czech Republic. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2014; 11:3. [PMID: 24512517 PMCID: PMC3929155 DOI: 10.1186/1550-2783-11-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2013] [Accepted: 02/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To assess the prevalence of exercise-associated hyponatremia (EAH) in two 24-hour mountain bike (MTB) (R1,R2), one 24-hour running (R3) and one multi-stage MTB (R4) races held in the Czech Republic in a cluster of four cross-sectional studies. METHODS In 27 ultra-mountain bikers (ultra-MTBers), 12 ultra-runners, and 14 multi-stage MTBers, fluid intake, changes (Δ) in body mass, hematocrit, plasma volume, plasma [Na+], plasma [K+], plasma osmolality, urine [Na+], urine [K+], urine specific gravity, urine osmolality, K+/Na+ ratio in urine, transtubular potassium gradient and glomerular filtration rate were measured and calculated. The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and symptoms of EAH were recorded using post-race questionnaires. RESULTS Of the 53 finishers, three (5.7%) developed post-race EAH, thereof one (3.7%) ultra-MTBer, one (8.3%) ultra-runner and one (7.1%) multi-stage MTBer. Plasma [Na+] decreased significantly (p < 0.001) only in R4. Urine osmolality (R1, R3, R4 p < 0.001; R2 p < 0.05) and glomerular filtration rate (p < 0.001) increased, and body mass decreased in all races (p < 0.05). Δ body mass was inversely related to the number of kilometers achieved (p < 0.001) in R2 where better ultra-MTBers tended to lose more weight. Δ body mass (p < 0.001) and %Δ body mass (p = 0.05) were positively related to lower post-race plasma [Na+] in R3 that was associated with increased loss in body mass. Fluid intake was positively related to race performance in R1 and R2 (R1: p = 0.04; R2: p = 0.01) where ultra-MTBers in R1 and R2 who drank more finished ahead of those who drank less. Post-race plasma [Na+] was negatively associated with race performance in ultra-MTBers in R2 (p < 0.05), similarly ultra-runners in R3 (p < 0.05) where finishers with more kilometres had lower post-race plasma [Na+]. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of EAH in the Czech Republic was no higher compared to existing reports on ultra-endurance athletes in other countries. Lower plasma [Na+] and development of EAH may be attributed to overdrinking, a pituitary secretion of vasopressin, an impaired mobilization of osmotically inactive sodium stores, and/or an inappropriate inactivation of osmotically active sodium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Chlíbková
- Centre of Sports Activities, Brno University of Technology, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of General Practise and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Facharzt FMH für Allgemeinmedizin, Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of General Practise and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alena Žákovská
- Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ivana Tomášková
- Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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Rüst CA, Knechtle B, Knechtle P, Wirth A, Rosemann T. Body mass change and ultraendurance performance: a decrease in body mass is associated with an increased running speed in male 100-km ultramarathoners. J Strength Cond Res 2012; 26:1505-16. [PMID: 22614141 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0b013e318231a7b5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
We investigated, in 50 recreational male ultrarunners, the changes in body mass, selected hematological and urine parameters, and fluid intake during a 100-km ultramarathon. The athletes lost (mean and SD) 2.6 (1.8) % in body mass (p < 0.0001). Running speed was significantly and negatively related to the change in body mass (p < 0.05). Serum sodium concentration ([Na⁺]) and the concentration of aldosterone increased with increasing loss in body mass (p < 0.05). Urine-specific gravity increased (p < 0.0001). The change in body mass was significantly and negatively related to postrace serum [Na⁺] (p < 0.05). Fluid intake was significantly and positively related to both running speed (r = 0.33, p = 0.0182) and the change in body mass (r = 0.44, p = 0.0014) and significantly and negatively to both postrace serum [Na⁺] (r = -0.42, p = 0.0022) and the change in serum [Na⁺] (r = -0.38, p = 0.0072). This field study showed that recreational, male, 100-km ultramarathoners dehydrated as evidenced by the decrease in >2 % body mass and the increase in urine-specific gravity. Race performance, however, was not impaired because of the loss in body mass. In contrast, faster athletes lost more body mass compared with slower athletes while also drinking more. The concept that a loss of >2% in body mass leads to dehydration and consequently impairs endurance performance must be questioned for ultraendurance athletes competing in the field. For practical applications, a loss in body mass during a 100-km ultramarathon was associated with a faster running speed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph A Rüst
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Papadopoulou SK, Gouvianaki A, Grammatikopoulou MG, Maraki Z, Pagkalos IG, Malliaropoulos N, Hassapidou MN, Maffulli N. Body Composition and Dietary Intake of Elite Cross-country Skiers Members of the Greek National Team. Asian J Sports Med 2012; 3:257-66. [PMID: 23342224 PMCID: PMC3525822 DOI: 10.5812/asjsm.34548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2012] [Accepted: 07/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the anthropometric characteristics and dietary intake of the Greek national cross-country skiing team. METHODS Thirty-three athletes (10 females aged 20 ± 5 years; 23 males aged 20 ± 6 years old) participated in the study. All athletes were members of the Greek national ski team, and they had been selected to take part in the Winter Olympics, World Ski Championships, European Ski Championships or other international events, according to their performance. Body composition was estimated by bioelectrical impedance (BIA) and skinfold thickness. The athletes recorded their physical activity and dietary intake for 3 training days, and on a competition day. RESULTS The female skiers had 14.2±1.9% body fat, the men 11.0±1.5% body fat. Female athletes consumed a diet of 1988±319 Kcal during training days and 2011±330 Kcal during competition days. Male athletes consumed 2255±790 Kcal and 2125±639 Kcal respectively. These values are below those recommended for highly active people. During the training period, carbohydrate, fat and protein contributed to 44.5±7.1%, 39.2±5.3% and 16.1±3.7% of the total energy intake (EI) respectively for the males, and to 52.8±5.6%, 33.0±3.7% and 14.3±2.5% of the EI of the women. Between training and competition days, men demonstrated an increased carbohydrate and reduced fat consumption when competing (P<0.001 for both). Women, on the other hand, consumed more carbohydrate and less protein during competition days (P<0.05 for both). Protein intake was within the recommended range for both males and females, but fat exceeded the recommended values and was consumed at the expense of carbohydrate. Vitamins B(12), D, E and K, biotin, folate, Ca, Mg, K, I were inadequately consumed (below the RDA) by both women and men, while the women also exhibited inadequate intakes of iron and the men of manganese. CONCLUSIONS The inadequate energy and nutrient intake in the Greek national cross-country ski team could put the athletes at risk of nutritional deficiencies, and possibly compromise their athletic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sousana K. Papadopoulou
- Department of Nutrition & Dietetics, Alexander Technological Educational Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna Gouvianaki
- Department of Nutrition & Dietetics, Alexander Technological Educational Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria G. Grammatikopoulou
- Department of Nutrition & Dietetics, Alexander Technological Educational Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Zoi Maraki
- Department of Nutrition & Dietetics, Alexander Technological Educational Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis G. Pagkalos
- Department of Mathematical, Physical and Computational Sciences, Faculty of Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Malliaropoulos
- National Track & Field Centre, Sports Injury Clinic, Sports Medicine Clinic of S.E.G.A.S., Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria N. Hassapidou
- Department of Nutrition & Dietetics, Alexander Technological Educational Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nicola Maffulli
- Centre of Sports and Exercise Medicine, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Mile End Hospital, London, UK
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Knechtle B, Baumgartner S, Knechtle P, Rüst CA, Rosemann T, Bescós R. Changes in single skinfold thickness in 100 km ultramarathoners. Open Access J Sports Med 2012; 3:147-57. [PMID: 24198597 PMCID: PMC3781909 DOI: 10.2147/oajsm.s37035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Changes in single skinfold thickness and body fat have been investigated in ultraswimmers and ultracyclists, but not in ultrarunners. The present study investigated the changes in single skinfold thickness during a 100 km ultramarathon. Methods Firstly, we investigated associations between prerace preparation and prerace body composition and, secondly, changes in single skinfold thickness during a 100 km ultramarathon in 219 male ultramarathoners. Changes in fat mass and skeletal muscle were estimated using anthropometric methods. Results Kilometers run weekly prerace and running speed during training were negatively associated with all skinfold thicknesses (P < 0.05) except for the front thigh skinfold. During the race, skinfold thickness at the pectoral (−0.1%), suprailiac (−1.8%), and calf (−0.8%) sites decreased (P < 0.05). The subjects lost 1.9 ± 1.4 kg of body mass (P < 0.001), 0.7 ± 1.0 kg of estimated skeletal muscle mass (P < 0.001), and 0.2 ± 1.3 kg of estimated fat mass (P < 0.05). The decrease in body mass was positively related to the decrease in both estimated skeletal muscle mass (r = 0.21, P = 0.0017) and estimated fat mass (r = 0.41, P < 0.0001). Conclusion Firstly, prerace fat mass and prerace skinfold thickness were associated with both volume and speed in running training. Secondly, during the ultramarathon, skinfold thickness decreased at the pectoral, suprailiac, and calf sites, but not at the thigh site. Percent decreases in skinfold thickness for ultrarunners was lower than the percent decreases in skinfold thickness reported for ultraswimmers and ultracyclists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich; ; Gesundheitszentrum St Gallen, St Gallen, Switzerland
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Knechtle B, Rüst CA, Knechtle P, Rosemann T, Lepers R. Age-related changes in ultra-triathlon performances. EXTREME PHYSIOLOGY & MEDICINE 2012; 1:5. [PMID: 23849327 PMCID: PMC3707100 DOI: 10.1186/2046-7648-1-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Background The age-related decline in performance has been investigated in swimmers, runners and triathletes. No study has investigated the age-related performance decline in ultra-triathletes. The purpose of this study was to analyse the age-related declines in swimming, cycling, running and overall race time for both Triple Iron ultra-triathlon (11.4-km swimming, 540-km cycling and 126.6-km running) and Deca Iron ultra-triathlon (38-km swimming, 1,800-km cycling and 420-km running). Methods The age and performances of 423 male Triple Iron ultra-triathletes and 119 male Deca Iron ultra-triathletes were analysed from 1992 to 2010 using regression analyses and ANOVA. Results The mean age of the finishers was significantly higher for Deca Iron ultra-triathletes (41.3 ± 3.1 years) compared to a Triple Iron ultra-triathletes (38.5 ± 3.3 years) (P < 0.05). For both ultra-distances, the fastest overall race times were achieved between the ages of 25 and 44 years. Deca Iron ultra-triathletes achieved the same level of performance in swimming and cycling between 25 and 54 years of age. Conclusions The magnitudes of age-related declines in performance in the three disciplines of ultra-triathlon differ slightly between Triple and Deca Iron ultra-triathlon. Although the ages of Triple Iron ultra-triathletes were on average younger compared to Deca Iron ultra-triathletes, the fastest race times were achieved between 25 and 44 years for both distances. Further studies should investigate the motivation and training of ultra-triathletes to gain better insights in ultra-triathlon performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Gesundheitszentrum St, Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, St,, Gallen, 9011, Switzerland.
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Knechtle B, Wirth A, Knechtle P, Rüst CA, Rosemann T. A comparison of ultra-endurance cyclists in a qualifying ultra-cycling race for Paris-Brest-Paris and Race Across America-Swiss cycling marathon. Percept Mot Skills 2012; 114:96-110. [PMID: 22582679 DOI: 10.2466/05.pms.114.1.96-110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Ultra-endurance events test the adaptation of human physiology to extreme physical and mental demands, high levels of training, motivation, and physical conditioning among participants. To understand basic differences among participants according to the severity of the race, participants in qualifying events for two ultra-endurance cycling races, differing in length and intensity, were compared on measures of anthropometry, training, and support. One race was four times longer, required supporting teams, and racers typically had little sleep, which should lead to the qualifiers being substantially more highly trained than those from the shorter race. The qualifiers in the longer race had greater intensity in training while the qualifiers in the shorter race relied more on training volume. Different strategies and types of training reflected the different demands of the races. Future studies should evaluate personality and motivational differences in ultra-endurance events and between these athletes and athletes in other sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Facharzt FMH fiür Allgemeinmedizin, Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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Knechtle B, Knechtle P, Wirth A, Alexander Rüst C, Rosemann T. A faster running speed is associated with a greater body weight loss in 100-km ultra-marathoners. J Sports Sci 2012; 30:1131-40. [PMID: 22668199 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2012.692479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
In 219 recreational male runners, we investigated changes in body mass, total body water, haematocrit, plasma sodium concentration ([Na(+)]), and urine specific gravity as well as fluid intake during a 100-km ultra-marathon. The athletes lost 1.9 kg (s = 1.4) of body mass, equal to 2.5% (s = 1.8) of body mass (P < 0.001), 0.7 kg (s = 1.0) of predicted skeletal muscle mass (P < 0.001), 0.2 kg (s = 1.3) of predicted fat mass (P < 0.05), and 0.9 L (s = 1.6) of predicted total body water (P < 0.001). Haematocrit decreased (P < 0.001), urine specific gravity (P < 0.001), plasma volume (P < 0.05), and plasma [Na(+)] (P < 0.05) all increased. Change in body mass was related to running speed (r = -0.16, P < 0.05), change in plasma volume was associated with change in plasma [Na(+)] (r = -0.28, P < 0.0001), and change in body mass was related to both change in plasma [Na(+)] (r = -0.36) and change in plasma volume (r = 0.31) (P < 0.0001). The athletes consumed 0.65 L (s = 0.27) fluid per hour. Fluid intake was related to both running speed (r = 0.42, P < 0.0001) and change in body mass (r = 0.23, P = 0.0006), but not post-race plasma [Na(+)] or change in plasma [Na(+)] (P > 0.05). In conclusion, faster runners lost more body mass, runners lost more body mass when they drank less fluid, and faster runners drank more fluid than slower runners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Facharzt FMH für Allgemeinmedizin, St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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Weitkunat T, Knechtle B, Knechtle P, Rüst CA, Rosemann T. Body composition and hydration status changes in male and female open-water swimmers during an ultra-endurance event. J Sports Sci 2012; 30:1003-13. [PMID: 22554315 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2012.682083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Body mass changes during ultra-endurance performances have been described for running, cycling and for swimming in a heated pool. The present field study of 20 male and 11 female open-water swimmers investigated the changes in body composition and hydration status during an ultra-endurance event. Body mass, both estimated fat mass and skeletal muscle mass, haematocrit, plasma sodium concentration ([Na+]) and urine specific gravity were determined. Energy intake, energy expenditure and fluid intake were estimated. Males experienced significant reductions in body mass (-0.5 %) and skeletal muscle mass (-1.1 %) (P < 0.05) during the race compared to females who showed no significant changes with regard to these variables (P > 0.05). Changes in percent body fat, fat mass, and fat-free mass were heterogeneous and did not reach statistical significance (P > 0.05) between gender groups. Fluid intake relative to plasma volume was higher in females than in males during the ultra-endurance event. Compared to males, females' average increase in haematocrit was 3.3 percentage points (pp) higher, urine specific gravity decrease 0.1 pp smaller, and plasma [Na+] 1.3 pp higher. The observed patterns of fluid intake, changes in plasma volume, urine specific gravity, and plasma [Na+] suggest that, particularly in females, a combination of fluid shift from blood vessels to interstitial tissue, facilitated by skeletal muscle damage, as well as exercise-associated hyponatremia had occurred. To summarise, changes in body composition and hydration status are different in male compared to female open-water ultra-endurance swimmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Weitkunat
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Knechtle B, Knechtle P, Rüst CA, Rosemann T, Lepers R. Finishers and nonfinishers in the 'Swiss Cycling Marathon ' to qualify for the 'Race Across America '. J Strength Cond Res 2012; 25:3257-63. [PMID: 22080313 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0b013e31821606b3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Knechtle, B, Knechtle, P, Rüst, CA, Rosemann, T, and Lepers, R. Finishers and nonfinishers in the 'Swiss Cycling Marathon' to qualify for the 'Race across America.' J Strength Cond Res 25(12): 3257-3263, 2011-We compared the characteristics of prerace anthropometry, previous experience, and training and support during the race in 39 finishers and 37 nonfinishers in the 'Swiss Cycling Marathon,' over 720 km. In this race, the cyclists intended to qualify for the 'Race across America,' the longest nonstop cycling race in the World from the West to the East of the USA. Finishers in the 'Swiss Cycling Marathon' had a lower body mass, a lower body mass index, lower circumferences of upper arm and thigh, a lower percent body fat, completed more weekly training units, covered more kilometers in the longest training ride, rode at a faster speed during training, rode more kilometers per week and for more hours, had more previous finishes in the 'Swiss Cycling Marathon' and a lighter race bike compared to the nonfinishers. In the bivariate analysis, the cycling distance per training unit (r = 0.37), the duration per training unit (r = 0.44), the speed per training unit (r = -0.59), using nutrition provided by the organizer (r = 0.50), and using own nutrition (r = 0.49) during the race were significantly and positively associated with race time. For practical applications, anthropometric characteristics such as a low body mass or low body fat were not related to race time, whereas training characteristics and nutrition during the race were associated with race time. The key to a successful finish in an ultraendurance cycling race such as the 'Swiss Cycling Marathon' seems a high speed in training and an appropriate nutrition during the race.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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No case of exercise-associated hyponatraemia in top male ultra-endurance cyclists: the ‘Swiss Cycling Marathon’. Eur J Appl Physiol 2011; 112:689-97. [DOI: 10.1007/s00421-011-2024-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2011] [Accepted: 05/23/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The prevalence of exercise-associated hyponatremia (EAH) has mainly been investigated in marathoners and Ironman triathletes. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of EAH in male ultraendurance athletes in other disciplines, such as ultraswimming, ultracycling, and ultramarathon running. DESIGN Observational field study. SETTING "Marathon Swim" in Lake Zurich, the "Swiss Cycling Marathon," the "Swiss Bike Masters," the "100-km Lauf Biel," and the "Swiss Jura Marathon." PARTICIPANTS Fifteen ultraswimmers, 28 ultra-road cyclists, 37 ultra-mountain bikers, 95 ultramarathoners, and 25 mountain ultramarathoners. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Changes in body mass, plasma sodium, urinary specific gravity, and hematocrit were measured. The athletes recorded their intake of fluids. RESULTS Two swimmers (13%), 3 road cyclists (10.7%), no mountain bikers (0%), 5 ultramarathoners (5%), and 2 mountain ultramarathoners (8%) developed EAH. In the mountain bikers (r = -0.41) and the 100-km ultramarathoners (r = -0.52), fluid intake was significantly and negatively related to race time. In the mountain ultramarathoners, fluid consumption increased during the race. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of EAH was no higher in ultraendurance athletes compared with existing reports on marathoners and Ironman triathletes. Of the 200 investigated ultraendurance athletes, 12 finishers (6%) developed EAH.
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Do ultra-runners in a 24-h run really dehydrate? Ir J Med Sci 2010; 180:129-34. [DOI: 10.1007/s11845-010-0500-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2009] [Accepted: 05/04/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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May GC, Doherty AR, Smeaton AF, Warrington GD. Correlating multimodal physical sensor information with biological analysis in ultra endurance cycling. SENSORS 2010; 10:7216-35. [PMID: 22163600 PMCID: PMC3231179 DOI: 10.3390/s100807216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2010] [Revised: 07/10/2010] [Accepted: 07/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The sporting domain has traditionally been used as a testing ground for new technologies which subsequently make their way into the public domain. This includes sensors. In this article a range of physical and biological sensors deployed in a 64 hour ultra-endurance non-stop cycling race are described. A novel algorithm to estimate the energy expenditure while cycling and resting during the event are outlined. Initial analysis in this noisy domain of “sensors in the field” are very encouraging and represent a first with respect to cycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory C May
- Centre for Sensor Web Technologies Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland.
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