Abstract
A im: This study was aimed to understand the physiological performance characteristics of cross- country runners and differences in performance variables between sexes. Methods: Twelve male and ten female cross-country runners performed a Maximal Oxygen Consumption test, Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry and Ultrasound measurements of their lower limb. Results: Males had significantly higher value levels of VO2Peak (73.3±7.5 vs 62.3±4.7 ml/kg/min), Ventilation (159.0±16.3 vs 120.8±12.5 L/min), Lactate Threshold (318±13.8 vs 259±7.8 m/sec), and Lean Mass (55.5±7.32 vs 42.34±3.81 kg). Females had higher values for Echo Intensity, Body Fat Percentage (7.42±2.60 vs 14.71±2.77 %) and Body Fat (4.76±1.94 vs 7.71±1.70 kg). All other variables were similar between male and female cross-country runners. Conclusion: The difference in physiological characteristics between males and females may help explain why males have more favorable performance outcomes.
Highlights
Physiological characteristics of distance runners have been primarily evaluated using oxygen analysis to determine VO2Peak, oxygen uptake at different thresholds, and running economy (Rabadán et al, 2011)
Further research into body mass determined that body fat is a good predictor of running performance (Lundby, et al, 2017; Maciejczyk et al, 2014; Salinero et al, 2016) as well as a predictor of injury (Nattiv, 2000; Roelofs et al, 2015)
What is unique to this study is that when analyzing the ultrasound measurement, fascicle length, pennation angle, and muscle size were similar between males and females with the differences being EI, Achilles tendon length, and subcutaneous fat thickness
Summary
Physiological characteristics of distance runners have been primarily evaluated using oxygen analysis to determine VO2Peak, oxygen uptake at different thresholds, and running economy (Rabadán et al, 2011). It is generally accepted that runners with a higher VO2Peak and better running economy will perform better in running events. These measurements are performed on a treadmill in a lab. These values have been used to generate prediction models of performance (Rabadán, et al, 2011) and have determined that different elite runners have different adaptation depending on the total distance run. Lower body mass and body fat percentage have higher performance values (VO2 max, faster race time) and have a reduced risk of injury
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