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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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Lichti J, Maggioni MA, Balcerek B, Becker PN, Labes R, Gunga HC, Fähling M, Steinach M. The relevance of body composition assessment for the rating of perceived exertion in trained and untrained women and men. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1188802. [PMID: 37593237 PMCID: PMC10431604 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1188802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Mechanic power output (MPO) and oxygen consumption (VO2) reflect endurance capacity and are often stated relative to body mass (BM) but less often per skeletal muscle mass (SMM). Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) has previously shown conflicting results between sexes at submaximal intensities. Individual body composition, however, largely differs due to sex and training status. It was the aim of this study to evaluate RPE of untrained and trained individuals of both sexes considering body composition and to estimate whether RPE could be improved as a tool to determine endurance capacity. Methods: The study included 34 untrained adults (age 26.18 ± 6.34 years, 18 women) and 29 endurance trained (age 27.86 ± 5.19, 14 women) who were measured for body composition (InBody 770, InBody Europe B.V., Germany) and tested on a treadmill (Pulsar, H/P/Cosmos, Germany) for aerobic capacity (Metalyzer 3B, Cortex Biophysik GmbH, Germany) in an all-out exercise test applying the Bruce-protocol. VO2, MPO, heart rate (HR), and RPE were obtained at each exercise stage. VO2 and MPO were calculated per BM and SMM. RPE values were correlated with absolute VO2 and MPO, as well as relative to BM, and SMM. HR values and the parameters' standardized values served for comparison to standard procedures. Results: VO2 and MPO were higher in men compared to women and in trained compared to untrained participants. No differences between groups and sexes exist when VO2 and MPO were calculated per BM. When calculated per SMM, VO2 and MPO indicate opposite results already at low intensity stages of exercise test. RPE values had highest correlation with MPO per SMM (R2 = 0.8345) compared to absolute MPO (R2 = 0.7609), or MPO per BM (R2 = 0.8176). Agreement between RPE and MPO per SMM was greater than between RPE and HR (p = 0.008). Conclusion: Although RPE represents a subjective value at first glance, it was shown that RPE constitutes a valuable tool to estimate endurance capacity, which can be further enhanced if individual body composition is considered. Furthermore, MPO and VO2 should be considered relative to SMM. These findings might help to avoid over-exertion, especially among untrained people, by adjusting the training intensity for each subject according to the individual strain evaluated in an exercise test based on individual body composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Lichti
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Translational Physiology, Berlin, Germany
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Physiology, Center for Space Medicine and Extreme Environments Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martina Anna Maggioni
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Physiology, Center for Space Medicine and Extreme Environments Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Björn Balcerek
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Translational Physiology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Philipp Nils Becker
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Translational Physiology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Labes
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Translational Physiology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hanns-Christian Gunga
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Physiology, Center for Space Medicine and Extreme Environments Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Fähling
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Translational Physiology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mathias Steinach
- Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Physiology, Center for Space Medicine and Extreme Environments Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Durkalec-Michalski K, Główka N, Nowaczyk PM, Laszczak A, Gogojewicz A, Suliburska J. Do Triathletes Periodize Their Diet and Do Their Mineral Content, Body Composition and Aerobic Capacity Change during Training and Competition Periods? Nutrients 2022; 15:nu15010006. [PMID: 36615663 PMCID: PMC9824709 DOI: 10.3390/nu15010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The triathlon is a demanding endurance multisport, which may strongly affect the nutritional status of athletes. The aim of this study was to find whether there are any differences in energy value and nutrient intake, body mass and body composition, aerobic performance and hair mineral status between training and competition periods and to assess whether there is a link between hair mineral content and physical capacity and nutrition. This observational study covered 20 triathletes aged 32 ± 7 years. The results of our study indicated performance improvement during the competition period (longer time to exhaustion (p = 0.025) and lower maximal oxygen uptake at the ventilatory threshold (%VO2max_VT; p = 0.047)). However, no differences were recorded in nutrition and body composition between two training vs. competition periods. There was a significant depletion in hair iron content during the competition period (p = 0.010). Furthermore, there were significant relationships between hair calcium content and absolute maximal oxygen uptake and %VO2max_VT during the training period. It is necessary to introduce nutritional education in the group of triathletes focused on exercise-oriented nutritional periodization following the requirements of the training and competition periods, thus preventing the risk of nutrient deficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Durkalec-Michalski
- Department of Sports Dietetics, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznań, Poland
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University, 162 52 Prague, Czech Republic
- Correspondence:
| | - Natalia Główka
- Department of Sports Dietetics, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznań, Poland
| | - Paulina M. Nowaczyk
- Department of Sports Dietetics, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznań, Poland
| | - Anna Laszczak
- Department of Sports Dietetics, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznań, Poland
| | - Anna Gogojewicz
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Poznan University of Physical Education, 61-871 Poznań, Poland
| | - Joanna Suliburska
- Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Poznań University of Life Sciences, 60-624 Poznań, Poland
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Health status of recreational runners over 10-km up to ultra-marathon distance based on data of the NURMI Study Step 2. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10295. [PMID: 35717392 PMCID: PMC9206639 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13844-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Endurance running is well-documented to affect health beneficially. However, data are still conflicting in terms of which race distance is associated with the maximum health effects to be obtained. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the health status of endurance runners over different race distances. A total of 245 recreational runners (141 females, 104 males) completed an online survey. Health status was assessed by measuring eight dimensions in two clusters of health-related indicators (e.g., body weight, mental health, chronic diseases and hypersensitivity reactions, medication intake) and health-related behaviors (e.g., smoking habits, supplement intake, food choice, healthcare utilization). Each dimension consisted of analytical parameters derived to a general domain score between 0 and 1. Data analysis was performed by using non-parametric ANOVA and MANOVA. There were 89 half-marathon (HM), 65 marathon/ultra-marathon (M/UM), and 91 10-km runners. 10-km runners were leaner than both the HM and M/UM runners (p ≤ 0.05). HM runners had higher health scores for six dimensions (body weight, mental health, chronic diseases and hypersensitivity reactions, medication intake, smoking habits, and health care utilization), which contributed to an average score of 77.1% (score range 62–88%) for their overall state of health. Whereas 10-km and M/UM runners had lesser but similar average scores in the overall state of health (71.7% and 72%, respectively). Race distance had a significant association with the dimension “chronic diseases and hypersensitivity reactions” (p ≤ 0.05). Despite the null significant associations between race distance and seven (out of eight) multi-item health dimensions, a tendency towards better health status (assessed by domain scores of health) among HM runners was found compared to other distance runners. However, the optimal state of health across all race distances supported the notion that endurance running contributed to overall health and well-being. Trial registration number: ISRCTN73074080. Retrospectively registered 12th June 2015.
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Katharina W, Mohamad M, Derrick T, Martina G, Gerold W, Claus L, Lee H, Thomas R, Beat K. Supplement intake in half-marathon, (ultra-)marathon and 10-km runners - results from the NURMI study (Step 2). J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2021; 18:64. [PMID: 34579746 PMCID: PMC8477506 DOI: 10.1186/s12970-021-00460-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The primary nutritional challenge facing endurance runners is meeting the nutrient requirements necessary to optimize the performance and recovery of prolonged training sessions. Supplement intake is a commonly used strategy by elite and recreational distance runners to meet nutritional recommendations. This study was conducted to investigate the patterns of supplement intake among different groups of distance runners and the potential association between supplement intake and sex, age, running and racing experiences.In a cross-sectional design, from a total of 317 runners participating in this survey, 119 distance runners were involved in the final sample after data clearance, assigned into three groups of 10-km runners (n = 24), half-marathoners (n = 44), and (ultra-)marathoners (n = 51). Personal characteristics, training and racing experiences, as well as patterns of supplement intake, including type, frequency, and dosage, were evaluated by questionnaire. Food Frequency Questionnaire was implemented to assess macronutrient intake. ANOVA and logistic regression were used for statistical analysis.While 50 % of total distance runners reported consuming supplements regularly, no differences between distance groups in consumption of carbohydrate/protein, mineral, or vitamin supplements were observed (p > 0.05). In addition, age, sex, running and racing experience showed no significant association with supplement intake (p > 0.05). Vitamin supplements had the highest intake rate in runners by 43 % compared to minerals (34 %) and carbohydrate/protein supplements (19 %).The present findings provide a window into the targeted approaches of long-distance runners as well as their coaches and sport nutrition specialists when applying and suggesting sustainable nutritional strategies for training and competition.Trial registration: ISRCTN73074080. Retrospectively registered 12th June 2015.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wirnitzer Katharina
- Department of Subject Didactics and Educational Research and Development, University College of Teacher Education Tyrol, Innsbruck, Austria
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Life and Health Science Cluster Tirol, Subcluster Health/Medicine/Psychology, Innsbruck, Austria
- Research Center Medical Humanities, Leopold-Franzens University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Motevalli Mohamad
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Tanous Derrick
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gregori Martina
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Leitzmann Claus
- Institute of Nutrition, University of Gießen, Gießen, Germany
| | - Hill Lee
- Divison of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Rosemann Thomas
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Knechtle Beat
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Medbase St. Gallen Am Vadianplatz, St. Gallen, Switzerland
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Citarella R, Itani L, Intini V, Zucchinali G, Scevaroli S, Tannir H, El Masri D, Kreidieh D, El Ghoch M. Association between dietary practice, body composition, training volume and sport performance in 100-Km elite ultramarathon runners. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2021; 42:239-243. [PMID: 33745586 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2021.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIM Sport performance during competitions is a central goal for athletes, and several factors have been identified that appear to have an association with better performance in different sport disciplines. However, the data are still not conclusive in ultramarathon runners. Accordingly, this study aimed to assess the potential associations between anthropometric, body composition, dietary and training factors and athletic performance in 100-Km elite ultramarathon runners. METHODS Body mass index (BMI), body composition, training volume, Mediterranean dietary adequacy score (MDAS) and "100-Km race competition record" were assessed in 10 elite ultramarathon runners from the Italian Ultramarathon and Trail Association (IUTA) of the Italian national team. RESULTS The study sample had a mean age of 41.1 ± 7.59 years and BMI of 21.66 ± 1.11 kg/m2. Female athletes had a lower appendicular skeletal muscle index (ASMI) and 100-Km race competition record, and a higher trunk fat percentage and MDAS compared to males. Correlation analysis revealed a significant association between the 100-Km race competition record and age, gender, ASMI, training volume, total body and trunk fat percentages. However, after correcting for confounders, partial correlation analysis confirmed only the association between training volume and 100-Km race competition record (ρ = -0.891, p = 0.009). CONCLUSION Our findings provide evidence that a higher training volume expressed as Kilometers per week is an independent variable associated with better performance in 100-Km race competitions in elite ultramarathon runners. Future studies are needed to assess the usefulness of programs based on the increase of training volume as a strategy to improve athletic performance in 100-Km races in this specific population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Citarella
- CTR Centre of Rehabilitation Therapy, Fratelli Cervi Street, 59/e, 42124, Reggio Emilia (RE), Italy; Italian Ultra Marathon and Trail Association, Moscardo Street, 47, 37142, Verona (VR), Italy
| | - Leila Itani
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Beirut Arab University, P.O. Box 11-5020, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Vito Intini
- Italian Ultra Marathon and Trail Association, Moscardo Street, 47, 37142, Verona (VR), Italy
| | - Gregorio Zucchinali
- Italian Ultra Marathon and Trail Association, Moscardo Street, 47, 37142, Verona (VR), Italy
| | - Stefano Scevaroli
- Italian Ultra Marathon and Trail Association, Moscardo Street, 47, 37142, Verona (VR), Italy
| | - Hana Tannir
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Beirut Arab University, P.O. Box 11-5020, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dana El Masri
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Beirut Arab University, P.O. Box 11-5020, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Dima Kreidieh
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Beirut Arab University, P.O. Box 11-5020, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marwan El Ghoch
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Beirut Arab University, P.O. Box 11-5020, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Schütz UH, Ehrhardt M, Beer M, Schmidt-Trucksäss A, Billich C. Pre-race determinants influencing performance and finishing of a transcontinental 4486-km ultramarathon. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2019; 59:1608-1621. [PMID: 31311242 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.19.09840-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-race determinants influencing performance and finishing of one of the largest transcontinental multistage ultramarathons were investigated. METHODS Forty-four participants of the TransEurope FootRace 2009 (TEFR), running 4486 km in 64 stages (average 70.1 km daily) were analyzed regarding training and running history. This included years of regular endurance running (PRY), number of finished marathons, ultramarathons (UM) and multistage ultramarathons (MSUM), pre-race records (PRR) for marathon and specific UM races and the extent of pre-race training (PRT) in the last year before TEFR: volume (km/week), duration (h/week) and intensity (km/h). RESULTS Mean total running speed during TEFR was 8.25 km/h.Seventy-one percent of subjects finished the race. The mean PRT-volume extends 5500 km. Finishers and non-finishers of the TEFR did not show significant difference in any tested pre-race determinants. There was no association between PRY, number of finished marathons, UM, and MSUM and TEFR performance. There was very strong positive correlation between PRT-intensity and TEFR performance. PRT volume correlated with a medium effect size to TEFR performance. PRR in specific ultra-races (6-hour, 50-km, 100-km races) showed a high correlation to TEFR performance. Performance in ultramarathon correlates inversely with age. CONCLUSIONS Like in other endurance disciplines with shorter distances, in ultra-long multistage endurance running the athletes also need a stage-specific pre-race experience, training and adaptation if he wants to end up with a good performance. But dropping out of a MSUM seems not to be consistent with regard to specific pre-race experience. Further research results of TEFR project may reveal potential risk factors for non-finishing a transcontinental footrace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe H Schütz
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany -
| | | | - Meinrad Beer
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Christian Billich
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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Structural and functional body components in athletic health and performance phenotypes. Eur J Clin Nutr 2018; 73:215-224. [PMID: 30287933 DOI: 10.1038/s41430-018-0321-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Knechtle B, Zingg MA, Rosemann T, Rüst CA. The aspect of experience in ultra-triathlon races. SPRINGERPLUS 2015; 4:278. [PMID: 26101730 PMCID: PMC4471069 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-015-1050-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Previous experience seems to be an important predictor for endurance and ultra-endurance performance. The present study investigated whether the number of previously completed races and/or the personal best times in shorter races is more predictive for performance in longer non-stop ultra-triathlons such as a Deca Iron ultra-triathlon. All female and male ultra-triathletes who had finished between 1985 and 2014 at least one Double Iron ultra-triathlon (i.e. 7.6 km swimming, 360 km cycling and 84.4 km running), one Triple Iron ultra-triathlon (i.e. 11.4 km swimming, 540 km cycling and 126.6 km running), one Quintuple Iron ultra-triathlon (i.e. 19 km swimming, 900 km cycling and 221 km running) and one Deca Iron ultra-triathlon (i.e. 38 km swimming, 1,800 km cycling and 422 km running) were identified and their best race times for each distance were recorded. Multiple regression analysis (stepwise, forward selection, p of F for inclusion <0.05, p of F for exclusion >0.1, listwise deletion) was used to determine all variables correlating to overall race time and performance in split disciplines for both Quintuple and Deca Iron ultra-triathlon. The number of finished shorter races (i.e. Double and Triple Iron ultra-triathlon) was not associated with the number of finished longer races (i.e. Quintuple and Deca Iron ultra-triathlon) whereas both split and overall race times correlated to split and overall race times of the longer races with the exception of the swimming split times in Double Iron ultra-triathlon showing no correlation with swimming split times in both Quintuple and Deca Iron ultra-triathlon. In summary, previous experience seemed of importance in performance for longer ultra-triathlon races (i.e. Quintuple and Deca Iron ultra-triathlon) where the personal best times of shorter races (i.e. Double and Triple Iron ultra-triathlon) were important, but not the number of previously finished races. For athletes and coaches, fast race times in shorter ultra-triathlon races (i.e. Double and Triple Iron ultra-triathlon) are more important than a large of number finished races in order to achieve a fast race time in a longer ultra-triathlon (i.e. Quintuple and Deca Iron ultra-triathlon).
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Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Facharzt FMH für Allgemeinmedizin, Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland ; Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Knechtle B, Zingg MA, Rosemann T, Stiefel M, Rüst CA. What predicts performance in ultra-triathlon races? - a comparison between Ironman distance triathlon and ultra-triathlon. Open Access J Sports Med 2015; 6:149-59. [PMID: 26056498 PMCID: PMC4445872 DOI: 10.2147/oajsm.s79273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This narrative review summarizes recent intentions to find potential predictor variables for ultra-triathlon race performance (ie, triathlon races longer than the Ironman distance covering 3.8 km swimming, 180 km cycling, and 42.195 km running). Results from studies on ultra-triathletes were compared to results on studies on Ironman triathletes. Methods A literature search was performed in PubMed using the terms “ultra”, “triathlon”, and “performance” for the aspects of “ultra-triathlon”, and “Ironman”, “triathlon”, and “performance” for the aspects of “Ironman triathlon”. All resulting papers were searched for related citations. Results for ultra-triathlons were compared to results for Ironman-distance triathlons to find potential differences. Results Athletes competing in Ironman and ultra-triathlon differed in anthropometric and training characteristics, where both Ironmen and ultra-triathletes profited from low body fat, but ultra-triathletes relied more on training volume, whereas speed during training was related to Ironman race time. The most important predictive variables for a fast race time in an ultra-triathlon from Double Iron (ie, 7.6 km swimming, 360 km cycling, and 84.4 km running) and longer were male sex, low body fat, age of 35–40 years, extensive previous experience, a fast time in cycling and running but not in swimming, and origins in Central Europe. Conclusion Any athlete intending to compete in an ultra-triathlon should be aware that low body fat and high training volumes are highly predictive for overall race time. Little is known about the physiological characteristics of these athletes and about female ultra-triathletes. Future studies need to investigate anthropometric and training characteristics of female ultra-triathletes and what motivates women to compete in these races. Future studies need to correlate physiological characteristics such as maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) with ultra-triathlon race performance in order to investigate whether these characteristics are also predictive for ultra-triathlon race performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland ; Gesundheitszentrum St Gallen, St Gallen, Switzerland
| | | | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael Stiefel
- Institute of Primary Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Knechtle B. Relationship of anthropometric and training characteristics with race performance in endurance and ultra-endurance athletes. Asian J Sports Med 2014; 5:73-90. [PMID: 25834701 PMCID: PMC4374609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 12/17/2013] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
A variety of anthropometric and training characteristics have been identified as predictor variables for race performance in endurance and ultra-endurance athletes. Anthropometric characteristics such as skin-fold thicknesses, body fat, circumferences and length of limbs, body mass, body height, and body mass index were bi-variately related to race performance in endurance athletes such as swimmers in pools and in open water, in road and mountain bike cyclists, and in runners and triathletes over different distances. Additionally, training variables such as volume and speed were also bi-variately associated with race performance. Multi-variate regression analyses including anthropometric and training characteristics reduced the predictor variables mainly to body fat and speed during training units. Further multi-variate regression analyses including additionally the aspects of previous experience such as personal best times showed that mainly previous best time in shorter races were the most important predictors for ultra-endurance race times. Ultra-endurance athletes seemed to prepare differently for their races compared to endurance athletes where ultra-endurance athletes invested more time in training and completed more training kilometers at lower speed compared to endurance athletes. In conclusion, the most important predictor variables for ultra-endurance athletes were a fast personal best time in shorter races, a low body fat and a high speed during training units.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland,Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland,Corresponding Author: Facharzt FMH für Allgemeinmedizin Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen Vadianstrasse 26 9001 St. Gallen Switzerland
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Brunkhorst L, Kielstein H. Comparison of anthropometric characteristics between professional triathletes and cyclists. Biol Sport 2014; 30:269-73. [PMID: 24744498 PMCID: PMC3944541 DOI: 10.5604/20831862.1077552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Anthropometric characteristics of athletes are considered to be an important determinant of success in sport. The aim of the present study was to compare several anthropometric parameters and subjective characteristics of professional elite triathletes with anthropometric profiles of professional cyclists and sportive students. In total 93 volunteers (21 male and female triathletes, 26 male cyclists and as a control group 46 male and female students) participated in this study. Eight different anthropometric parameters were measured and a five-page questionnaire containing 35 general questions had to be completed. Interestingly, there were no significant differences between the arm span, the lengths of the lower limb and the circumference of waist and hip between male triathletes and cyclists. As expected, the athletes had significantly lower heart rates and lower weights as compared to the controls. Further results showed that male cyclists had a higher BMI, larger thighs and were taller as compared to the male triathletes. The present study could not evaluate specific anthropometric characteristics as predictive factors of performance in elite athletes. Thus, individual successful performance is linked to discipline and talent rather than to a specific anthropometric profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Brunkhorst
- Clinic for Paediatric Nephrology, Hepatology and Metabolic Disorders and Institute for Functional and Applied Anatomy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - H Kielstein
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Faculty of Medicine, Halle (Saale), Germany
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Sedeaud A, Marc A, Marck A, Dor F, Schipman J, Dorsey M, Haida A, Berthelot G, Toussaint JF. BMI, a performance parameter for speed improvement. PLoS One 2014; 9:e90183. [PMID: 24587266 PMCID: PMC3934974 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2013] [Accepted: 01/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to investigate the association between anthropometric characteristics and performance in all track and field running events and assess Body Mass Index (BMI) as a relevant performance indicator. Data of mass, height, BMI and speed were collected for the top 100 international men athletes in track events from 100 m to marathon for the 1996-2011 seasons, and analyzed by decile of performance. Speed is significantly associated with mass (r = 0.71) and BMI (r = 0.71) in world-class runners and moderately with height (r = 0.39). Athletes, on average were continuously lighter and smaller with distance increments. In track and field, speed continuously increases with BMI. In each event, performances are organized through physique gradients. « Lighter and smaller is better » in endurance events but « heavier and taller is better » for sprints. When performance increases, BMI variability progressively tightens, but it is always centered around a distance-specific optimum. Running speed is organized through biometric gradients, which both drives and are driven by performance optimization. The highest performance level is associated with narrower biometric intervals. Through BMI indicators, diversity is possible for sprints whereas for long distance events, there is a more restrictive aspect in terms of physique. BMI is a relevant indicator, which allows for a clear differentiation of athletes' capacities between each discipline and level of performance in the fields of human possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrien Sedeaud
- IRMES (Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidémiologie du Sport), INSEP, Paris, France
- Université Paris-Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Andy Marc
- IRMES (Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidémiologie du Sport), INSEP, Paris, France
| | - Adrien Marck
- IRMES (Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidémiologie du Sport), INSEP, Paris, France
| | - Frédéric Dor
- IRMES (Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidémiologie du Sport), INSEP, Paris, France
| | - Julien Schipman
- IRMES (Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidémiologie du Sport), INSEP, Paris, France
| | - Maya Dorsey
- IRMES (Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidémiologie du Sport), INSEP, Paris, France
| | - Amal Haida
- IRMES (Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidémiologie du Sport), INSEP, Paris, France
- Université de Rouen, CETAPS EA 3832, Mont Saint Aignan, France
| | - Geoffroy Berthelot
- IRMES (Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidémiologie du Sport), INSEP, Paris, France
- Université Paris-Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Jean-François Toussaint
- IRMES (Institut de Recherche bioMédicale et d'Epidémiologie du Sport), INSEP, Paris, France
- Université Paris-Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- CIMS, Hôtel-Dieu, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
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Black KE, Skidmore P, Brown RC. Fluid balance of cyclists during a 387-km race. Eur J Sport Sci 2014; 14 Suppl 1:S421-8. [PMID: 24444237 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2012.711860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Current hydration guidelines are designed to address the fine balance between minimising dehydration while reducing the risk of hyponatremia. During prolonged cycling events small discrepancies between drinking behaviour and fluid requirements may be detrimental to health and performance. The present study aimed to investigate the hydration practices of competitors in a 387 km cycle race in order to evaluate the effect on fluid balance and monitor the prevalence of dysnatremia. Eighteen participants provided blood and urine samples pre- and post-race to measure sodium and fluid balance. Sweat samples were collected via patches for analysis of sodium concentration. Body weight was measured at the start and end of the race. On average participants consumed 0.58 L h(-1) of fluid. Upon completion of the race 7 of the 18 (39%) cyclists had blood sodium concentrations of 135 mmol L(-1) or lower with one cyclist recording a value of 132 mmol L(-1). Only two cyclists appeared to be moderately dehydrated. A post-race questionnaire indicated cyclists were most concerned with preventing dehydration. It appears that cyclists taking part in prolonged endurance events are at more risk of hyponatremia than dehydration and do not readily change their drinking behaviour to match their sweat losses.
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Friedrich M, Rüst CA, Rosemann T, Knechtle P, Barandun U, Lepers R, Knechtle B. A Comparison of Anthropometric and Training Characteristics between Female and Male Half-Marathoners and the Relationship to Race Time. Asian J Sports Med 2013; 5:10-20. [PMID: 24868427 PMCID: PMC4009083 DOI: 10.5812/asjsm.34175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2013] [Accepted: 09/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Lower limb skin-fold thicknesses have been differentially associated with sex in elite runners. Front thigh and medial calf skin-fold appear to be related to 1,500m and 10,000m time in men but 400m time in women. The aim of the present study was to compare anthropometric and training characteristics in recreational female and male half-marathoners. Methods The association between both anthropometry and training characteristics and race time was investigated in 83 female and 147 male recreational half marathoners using bi- and multi-variate analyses. Results In men, body fat percentage (β=0.6), running speed during training (β=-3.7), and body mass index (β=1.9) were related to half-marathon race time after multi-variate analysis. After exclusion of body mass index, r2 decreased from 0.51 to 0.49, but body fat percentage (β=0.8) and running speed during training (β=-4.1) remained predictive. In women, body fat percentage (β=0.75) and speed during training (β=-6.5) were related to race time (r2=0.73). For women, the exclusion of body mass index had no consequence on the predictive variables for half-marathon race time. Conclusion To summarize, in both female and male recreational half-marathoners, both body fat percentage and running speed during training sessions were related to half-marathon race times when corrected with co-variates after multi-variate regression analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Friedrich
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph A. Rüst
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Ursula Barandun
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Romuald Lepers
- INSERM U1093, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Address: Facharzt FMH für Allgemeinmedizin, Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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16
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Meili D, Knechtle B, Rüst CA, Rosemann T, Lepers R. Participation and performance trends in 'Ultraman Hawaii' from 1983 to 2012. EXTREME PHYSIOLOGY & MEDICINE 2013; 2:25. [PMID: 23916227 PMCID: PMC3751086 DOI: 10.1186/2046-7648-2-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Participation and performance trends have been investigated in a single stage Ironman triathlon such as the 'Ironman Hawaii,' but not for a multi-stage ultra-triathlon such as the 'Ultraman Hawaii' covering a total distance of 515 km. The aims of this study were to analyze (1) changes in participation and performance, (2) sex-related differences in overall and split time performances, and (3) the age of peak performance in Ultraman Hawaii. METHODS Age and race times including split times for 98 women and 570 men who successfully finished Ultraman Hawaii (day 1 with 10-km swimming and 145-km cycling, day 2 with 276-km cycling, and day 3 with 84-km running) between 1983 and 2012 were analyzed. Changes in variables over time of annual winners and annual top three women and men were investigated using simple linear regression analyses. RESULTS The number of female finishers increased (r2 = 0.26, p < 0.01), while the number of male finishers remained stable (r2 = 0.03, p > 0.05). Overall race times decreased for both female (r2 = 0.28, p < 0.01) and male (r2 = 0.14, p < 0.05) winners and for both the annual top three women (r2 = 0.36, p < 0.01) and men (r2 = 0.14, p = 0.02). The sex difference in performance decreased over time from 24.3% to 11.5% (r2 = 0.39, p < 0.01). For the split disciplines, the time performance in cycling on day 1 (r2 = 0.20, p < 0.01) and day 2 decreased significantly for men (r2 = 0.41, p < 0.01) but for women only on day 2 (r2 = 0.45, p < 0.01). Split times showed no changes in swimming and running. The age of the annual winners increased from 28 to 47 years for men (r2 = 0.35, p < 0.01) while it remained stable at 32 ± 6 years for women (r2 < 0.01, p > 0.05). The age of the annual top three finishers increased from 33 ± 6 years to 48 ± 3 years for men (p < 0.01) and from 29 ± 7 years to 49 ± 2 years for women (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Both the annual top three women and men improved performance in Ultraman Hawaii during the 1983-2012 period although the age of the annual top three women and men increased. The sex-related difference in performance decreased over time to reach approximately 12% similar to the reports of other endurance and ultra-endurance events. Further investigations are required to better understand the limiting factors of the multi-activities ultra-endurance events taking place over several days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimirela Meili
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, Zurich 8091, Switzerland
| | - Beat Knechtle
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, Zurich 8091, Switzerland
- Facharzt FMH für Allgemeinmedizin, Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, Vadianstrasse 26, St. Gallen 9001, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Alexander Rüst
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, Zurich 8091, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Rosemann
- Institute of General Practice and for Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, Zurich 8091, Switzerland
| | - Romuald Lepers
- INSERM U1093, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Burgundy, UFR STAPS, BP 27877, Dijon Cedex 21078, France
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Schütz UHW, Billich C, König K, Würslin C, Wiedelbach H, Brambs HJ, Machann J. Characteristics, changes and influence of body composition during a 4486 km transcontinental ultramarathon: results from the TransEurope FootRace mobile whole body MRI-project. BMC Med 2013; 11:122. [PMID: 23657091 PMCID: PMC3668188 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7015-11-122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2012] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Almost nothing is known about the medical aspects of runners doing a transcontinental ultramarathon over several weeks. The results of differentiated measurements of changes in body composition during the Transeurope Footrace 2009 using a mobile whole body magnetic resonance (MR) imager are presented and the proposed influence of visceral and somatic adipose and lean tissue distribution on performance tested. METHODS 22 participants were randomly selected for the repeated MR measurements (intervals: 800 km) with a 1.5 Tesla MR scanner mounted on a mobile unit during the 64-stage 4,486 km ultramarathon. A standardized and validated MRI protocol was used: T1 weighted turbo spin echo sequence, echo time 12 ms, repetition time 490 ms, slice thickness 10 mm, slice distance 10 mm (breath holding examinations). For topographic tissue segmentation and mapping a modified fuzzy c-means algorithm was used. A semi-automatic post-processing of whole body MRI data sets allows reliable analysis of the following body tissue compartments: Total body volume (TV), total somatic (TSV) and total visceral volume (TVV), total adipose (TAT) and total lean tissue (TLT), somatic (SLT) and visceral lean tissue (VLT), somatic (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and somatic adipose soft tissue (SAST). Specific volume changes were tested on significance. Tests on difference and relationship regarding prerace and race performance and non-finishing were done using statistical software SPSS. RESULTS Total, somatic and visceral volumes showed a significant decrease throughout the race. Adipose tissue showed a significant decrease compared to the start at all measurement times for TAT, SAST and VAT. Lean adipose tissues decreased until the end of the race, but not significantly. The mean relative volume changes of the different tissue compartments at the last measurement compared to the start were: TV -9.5% (SE 1.5%), TSV -9.4% (SE 1.5%), TVV -10.0% (SE 1.4%), TAT -41.3% (SE 2.3%), SAST -48.7% (SE 2.8%), VAT -64.5% (SE 4.6%), intraabdominal adipose tissue (IAAT) -67.3% (SE 4.3%), mediastinal adopose tissue (MAT) -41.5% (SE 7.1%), TLT -1.2% (SE 1.0%), SLT -1.4% (SE 1.1%). Before the start and during the early phase of the Transeurope Footrace 2009, the non-finisher group had a significantly higher percentage volume of TVV, TAT, SAST and VAT compared to the finisher group. VAT correlates significantly with prerace training volume and intensity one year before the race and with 50 km- and 24 hour-race records. Neither prerace body composition nor specific tissue compartment volume changes showed a significant relationship to performance in the last two thirds of the Transeurope Footrace 2009. CONCLUSIONS With this mobile MRI field study the complex changes in body composition during a multistage ultramarathon could be demonstrated in detail in a new and differentiated way. Participants lost more than half of their adipose tissue. Even lean tissue volume (mainly skeletal muscle tissue) decreased due to the unpreventable chronic negative energy balance during the race. VAT has the fastest and highest decrease compared to SAST and lean tissue compartments during the race. It seems to be the most sensitive morphometric parameter regarding the risk of non-finishing a transcontinental footrace and shows a direct relationship to prerace-performance. However, body volume or body mass and, therefore, fat volume has no correlation with total race performances of ultra-athletes finishing a 4,500 km multistage race.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe HW Schütz
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- Outpatient Rehabilitation Centre at University Hospital of Ulm, Pfarrer-Weiß-Weg 10, 89073, Ulm, Germany
| | - Christian Billich
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Kathrin König
- Section on Experimental Radiology, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christian Würslin
- Section on Experimental Radiology, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Heike Wiedelbach
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Hans-Jürgen Brambs
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jürgen Machann
- Section on Experimental Radiology, Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases (IDM), Metabolic Imaging – of the Helmholtz Center Munich at University of Tübingen (Paul Langerhaus Institute Tübingen), Tübingen, Germany
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Knechtle B, Rüst CA, Rosemann T, Knechtle P, Bescos R. Estimation bias: body mass and body height in endurance athletes. Percept Mot Skills 2013; 115:833-44. [PMID: 23409596 DOI: 10.2466/03.27.pms.115.6.833-844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Body Mass Index is associated with endurance performance in athletes. Reported and measured values of body mass and body height in 1,618 endurance athletes (1,358 men, 260 women) showed that men and women both underestimated their body mass and overestimated their body height, leading to an underestimation of Body Mass Index. There were age and sex differences in estimates of height and weight; for both women and men, underestimation of Body Mass Index amounted to 0.4 kg/m2. Master athletes tended to underestimate their body mass and overestimate their body height thus leading to significant differences between estimated and measured Body Mass Index. However, the magnitude of underestimation of BMI probably has a negligible influence on performance predictions. The differences between measured and estimated body mass, height, and BMI were within the range of normal daily variation, and for body height even within the precision of the measurement (0.5 cm).
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Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, University of Zurich, Zurich, 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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Schütz UHW, Schmidt-Trucksäss A, Knechtle B, Machann J, Wiedelbach H, Ehrhardt M, Freund W, Gröninger S, Brunner H, Schulze I, Brambs HJ, Billich C. The TransEurope FootRace Project: longitudinal data acquisition in a cluster randomized mobile MRI observational cohort study on 44 endurance runners at a 64-stage 4,486 km transcontinental ultramarathon. BMC Med 2012; 10:78. [PMID: 22812450 PMCID: PMC3409063 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7015-10-78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2012] [Accepted: 07/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The TransEurope FootRace 2009 (TEFR09) was one of the longest transcontinental ultramarathons with an extreme endurance physical load of running nearly 4,500 km in 64 days. The aim of this study was to assess the wide spectrum of adaptive responses in humans regarding the different tissues, organs and functional systems being exposed to such chronic physical endurance load with limited time for regeneration and resulting negative energy balance. A detailed description of the TEFR project and its implemented measuring methods in relation to the hypotheses are presented. METHODS The most important research tool was a 1.5 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner mounted on a mobile unit following the ultra runners from stage to stage each day. Forty-four study volunteers (67% of the participants) were cluster randomized into two groups for MRI measurements (22 subjects each) according to the project protocol with its different research modules: musculoskeletal system, brain and pain perception, cardiovascular system, body composition, and oxidative stress and inflammation. Complementary to the diverse daily mobile MR-measurements on different topics (muscle and joint MRI, T2*-mapping of cartilage, MR-spectroscopy of muscles, functional MRI of the brain, cardiac and vascular cine MRI, whole body MRI) other methods were also used: ice-water pain test, psychometric questionnaires, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), skinfold thickness and limb circumference measurements, daily urine samples, periodic blood samples and electrocardiograms (ECG). RESULTS Thirty volunteers (68%) reached the finish line at North Cape. The mean total race speed was 8.35 km/hour. Finishers invested 552 hours in total. The completion rate for planned MRI investigations was more than 95%: 741 MR-examinations with 2,637 MRI sequences (more than 200,000 picture data), 5,720 urine samples, 244 blood samples, 205 ECG, 1,018 BIA, 539 anthropological measurements and 150 psychological questionnaires. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the feasibility of conducting a trial based centrally on mobile MR-measurements which were performed during ten weeks while crossing an entire continent. This article is the reference for contemporary result reports on the different scientific topics of the TEFR project, which may reveal additional new knowledge on the physiological and pathological processes of the functional systems on the organ, cellular and sub-cellular level at the limits of stress and strain of the human body. Please see related articles: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1741-7015/10/76 and http://www.biomedcentral.com/1741-7015/10/77.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe H W Schütz
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital of Ulm, Germany.
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Abstract
Despite increased interest in ultra-endurance events, little research has examined ultra-triathlon performance. The aims of this study were: (i) to compare swimming, cycling, running, and overall performances in three ultra-distance triathlons, double Ironman distance triathlon (2IMT) (7.6 km swimming, 360 km cycling, and 84.4 km running), triple Ironman distance triathlon (3IMT) (11.4 km, 540 km, and 126.6 km), and deca Ironman distance triathlon (10IMT) (38 km, 1800 km, and 420 km) and (ii) to examine the relationships between the 2IMT, 3IMT, and 10IMT performances to create predicted equations of the 10IMT performances. Race results from 1985 through 2009 were examined to identify triathletes who performed the three considered ultra-distances. In total, 73 triathletes (68 men and 5 women) were identified. The contribution of swimming to overall ultra-triathlon performance was lower than for cycling and running. Running performance was more important to overall performance for 2IMT and 3IMT compared with 10IMT The 2IMT and 3IMT performances were significantly correlated with 10IMT performances for swimming and cycling, but not for running. 10IMT total time performance might be predicted by the following equation: 10IMT race time (minutes) = 5885 + 3.69 × 3IMT race time (minutes). This analysis of human performance during ultra-distance triathlons represents a unique data set in the field of ultra-endurance events. Additional studies are required to determine the physiological and psychological factors associated with ultra-triathlon performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romuald Lepers
- INSERM U887, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Burgundy, Dijon, France
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Knechtle B, Knechtle P, Rosemann T, Senn O. Personal best time, not anthropometry or training volume, is associated with total race time in a triple iron triathlon. J Strength Cond Res 2011; 25:1142-50. [PMID: 20651605 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0b013e3181d09f0f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate in 81 male recreational ultratriathletes (64 finishers and 17 nonfinishers) the relationship of anthropometry, prerace experience, and training with race outcome in a Triple Iron triathlon, using bi and multivariate analyses. In the bivariate analysis, the sum of 8 skinfolds (r = 0.38) and the sum of upper body skinfolds (r = 0.37) were positively related to total race time. None of the anthropometric variables was related to the swim or bike split. Circumference of upper arm (r = 0.42), percent body fat (r = 0.43), the sum of 8 skinfolds (r = 0.47), and the sum of upper body skinfolds (r = 0.45) were positively associated with the time in the run split. None of the training variables was related to total race time or split times. Personal best time in an Ironman triathlon (r = 0.59) and a Triple Iron triathlon (r = 0.82) were positively and highly significantly related to total race time. When all significant variables after bivariate analysis were included in a regression model, personal best time in a Triple Iron triathlon (p < 0.0001) remained the single predictor variable. For practical considerations, athletes with a background as an ultrarunner might have an advantage in successfully finishing a Triple Iron triathlon. However, ultrarunners should also have enough prerace experience in competing in Ironman and Triple Iron triathlons to successfully finish such a race.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Gesundheitszentrum St Gallen, St Gallen, Switzerland.
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Knechtle B, Wirth A, Baumann B, Knechtle P, Rosemann T, Oliver S. Differential correlations between anthropometry, training volume, and performance in male and female Ironman triathletes. J Strength Cond Res 2011; 24:2785-93. [PMID: 20571444 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0b013e3181c643b6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
We investigated in 27 male Ironman triathletes aged 30.3 (9.1) years, with 77.7- (9.8) kg body mass, 1.78- (0.06) m body height, 24.3- (2.2) kg·m⁻² body mass index (BMI), and 14.4 (4.8) % body fat and in 16 female Ironman triathletes aged 36.6 (7.0) years, with 59.7- (6.1) kg body mass, 1.66- (0.06) m body height, 21.5 (1.0) kg·m⁻² BMI, and 22.8 (4.8) % body fat to ascertain whether anthropometric or training variables were related to total race time. The male athletes were training 14.8 (3.2) h·wk⁻¹ with a speed of 2.7 (0.6) km·h⁻¹ in swimming, 27.3 (3.0) in cycling, and 10.6 (1.4) in running. The female athletes trained for 13.9 (3.4) h·wk⁻¹ at 2.1 (0.8) km·h⁻¹h in swimming, 23.7 (7.6) km·h⁻¹ in cycling, and 9.0 (3.7) km·h⁻¹ in running, respectively. For male athletes, percent body fat was highly significantly (r² = 0.583; p < 0.001) associated with total race time. In female triathletes, training volume showed a relationship to total race time (r² = 0.466; p < 0.01). Percent body fat was unrelated to training volume for both men (r² = 0.001; p > 0.05) and women (r² = 0.007; p > 0.05). We conclude that percent body fat showed a relationship to total race time in male triathletes, and training volume showed an association with total race time in female triathletes. Presumably, the relationship between percent body fat, training volume, and race performance is genetically determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beat Knechtle
- Gesundheitszentrum St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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Knechtle B, Wirth A, Baumann B, Knechtle P, Rosemann T. Personal best time, percent body fat, and training are differently associated with race time for male and female ironman triathletes. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2010; 81:62-68. [PMID: 20387399 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2010.10599628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
We studied male and female nonprofessional Ironman triathletes to determine whether percent body fat, training, and/or previous race experience were associated with race performance. We used simple linear regression analysis, with total race time as the dependent variable, to investigate the relationship among athletes' percent body fat, average amount of weekly training, and best time in an Ironman triathlon. For male athletes, percent body fat (r2 = 0.57, p < .001) was related to total race time but not average weekly training. For women, percent body fat showed no association with total race time; howeven average weekly training volume was related to total race time (r = .43, p < .01). Percent body fat and average weekly training were not correlated in either gender Speed in training was not associated with race performance in either gender. For men (r2 = .56, p < .001) and women (r2 = .45, p < .05), personal best time in an Ironman triathlon was related to total race time. We concluded that percent body fat was related to race performance in male athletes and to average weekly training in female athletes. Personal best time in an Ironman triathlon was associated with total race time for both male and female athletes.
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