Ironman Distance Triathlon Research Articles

Medical Encounters and Treatment Outcomes in Ironman-Distance Triathlon.

This study aimed to examine the injury and illness characteristics, treatments, and outcomes at elite ultraendurance triathlon events. We quantified participant demographics, injury types, treatments, and disposition for medical encounters at 27 Ironman-distance triathlon championships from 1989 to 2019. We then calculated the likelihood of concurrent medical complaints in each encounter. We analyzed 10,533 medical encounters among 49,530 race participants for a cumulative incidence of 221.9/1000 participants (95% confidence interval [CI] = 217.7-226.2). Younger (<35 yr; 259.3/1000, 95% CI = 251.6-267.2) and older athletes (70+ yr; 254.0/1000, 95% CI = 217.8-294.4) presented to the medical tent at higher rates than middle-age adults (36-69 yr; 180.1/1000, 95% CI = 175.4-185.0). Female athletes also presented at higher rates when compared with males (243.9/1000, 95% CI = 234.9-253.2 vs 198.0/1000, 95% CI = 193.4-202.6). The most common complaints were dehydration (438.7/1000, 95% CI = 426.2-451.6) and nausea (400.4/1000, 95% CI = 388.4-412.6). Intravenous fluid was the most common treatment (483/1000; 95% CI = 469.8-496.4). Of the athletes who received medical care, 116.7/1000 (95% CI = 110.1-123.4) did not finish the race, and 17.1/1000 (95% CI = 14.7-19.8) required hospital transport. Athletes rarely presented with an isolated medical condition unless their injury was dermatologic or musculoskeletal in nature. Ultraendurance triathlon events have high rates of medical encounters among female athletes, as well as both younger and older age categories. Gastrointestinal and exertional-related symptoms are among the most common complaints. Intravenous infusions were the most common treatment after basic medical care. Most athletes entering the medical tent finished the race, and a small percentage were dispatched to the hospital. A more thorough understanding of common medical occurrences, including concurrent presentations and treatments, will allow for improved care and optimal race management.

Differences in pacing during cycling and running in ultra-triathlons - The example of 'Swissultra'.

The knowledge of the most predictive split discipline and the pacing during a triathlon race is of utmost importance for planning an ultra-triathlon race. This study aimed at investigating the pacing during cycling and running splits in three different multi-stage ultra-triathlon race formats (i.e., Quintuple, Deca, and Double Deca Iron ultra-triathlon with 5x, 10x and 20x the daily distance of a full Ironman-distance triathlon). A total of 48 male ultra-triathletes competing in Quintuple (n=14), Deca (n=25), and Double Deca (n=9) Iron ultra-triathlon "swissultra" between 2016 and 2019 in Switzerland were analyzed. For each race day, we calculated the total performance (sum of all laps time), average individual performance (average of all laps time within a race day) and pacing variation (coefficient of variation of race laps time) for cycling and running. Discipline (cycling and running) and race distance (Quintuple, Deca, and Double Deca Iron ultra-triathlon) were used as independent parameters. The primary outcome variables were the time performance (daily and total) and the pacing variation. We applied two general linear models (GLM): the first model was a one-way ANOVA comparing total and daily performance by race distance, and the second model was a two-way ANOVA (race distance´ discipline) using pacing variation (average pace oscillation) as a dependent variable. The first GLM identified a significant race distance effect for total performance in both cycling (F = 375.6; p < 0.001; ηp2 = 0.943) and running (F = 267.8; p < 0.001; ηp2 = 0.922) with Double Deca Iron ultra-triathlon being the fastest and Quintuple Iron ultra-triathlon the slowest. The GLM for daily average performance showed no significant effect of race distance on cycling performance (F = 0.171; p = 0.843; ηp2 = 0.008), but on running performance (F = 6.408; p = 0.004; ηp2 = 0.222). The two-way GLM comparing pacing variation showed a significant effect for race distance (F = 11.81; p<0.001; ηp2 = 0.344) with Deca presenting larger pace variation than Quintuple and Double Deca Iron ultra-triathlon in both cycling and running, but not for discipline (F = 0.067; p=0.797; ηp2 = 0.001), nor for interaction (F = 1.469; p=0.241; ηp2 = 0.061). Athletes achieved a stable cycling performance independent of the length of the race, and the cycling split had an influence on the subsequent running split depending upon the length of the race.

Reduced L-Arginine and L-Arginine-ADMA-Ratio, and Increased SDMA after Norseman Xtreme Triathlon.

Endothelial vasodilatory function is dependent on the NO synthesis from L-arginine by endothelial NO-synthetase (eNOS). eNOS can be inhibited by asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) by competitive inhibition on the binding site, and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) can reduce the L-arginine availability intracellularly through competing for transport over the cellular membrane. To study the NO synthesis after prolonged exercise, we assessed circulatory L-arginine, the L-arginine/ADMA ratio, and SDMA before, after, and on the day after the Norseman Xtreme triathlon, an Ironman distance triathlon. We found significantly reduced levels of L-arginine and the L-arginine/ADMA ratio and increased levels of SDMA after the race (all p < 0.05). L-arginine rose toward baseline levels the day after the race, but ADMA increased beyond baseline levels, and SDMA remained above baseline the day after the race. The reduced levels of L-arginine and the L-arginine/ADMA ratio, and increased SDMA, after the race indicate a state of reduced capability of NO production. Increased levels of ADMA and SDMA, and reduced L-arginine/ADMA ratio, as seen the day after the race, are known risk markers of atherosclerosis and warrant further studies.

Transient Reduction of FMD-Response and L-Arginine Accompanied by Increased Levels of E-Selectin, VCAM, and ICAM after Prolonged Strenuous Exercise.

We assessed endothelial function by flow-mediated dilatation (FMD), levels of the NO-precursor L-arginine, and markers of endothelial inflammation before, at the finish line, and one week after the Norseman Xtreme triathlon. The race is an Ironman distance triathlon with a total elevation of 5200 m. Nine male participants were included. They completed the race in 14.5 (13.4–15.3) h. FMD was significantly reduced to 3.1 (2.1–5.0)% dilatation compared to 8.7 (8.2–9.3)% dilatation before the race (p < 0.05) and was normalized one week after the race. L-arginine showed significantly reduced levels at the finish line (p < 0.05) but was normalized one week after the race. Markers of endothelial inflammation E-Selectin, VCAM-1, and ICAM-1 all showed a pattern with increased values at the finish line compared to before the race (all p < 0.05), with normalization one week after the race. In conclusion, we found acutely reduced FMD with reduced L-arginine levels and increased E-Selectin, VCAM-1, and ICAM-1 immediately after the Norseman Xtreme triathlon. Our findings indicate a transient reduced endothelial function, measured by the FMD-response, after prolonged strenuous exercise that could be explained by reduced NO-precursor L-arginine levels and increased endothelial inflammation.

Impact of training volume and experience on amateur Ironman triathlon performance

PurposeTo investigate the association between training volume, sleep time, signs and symptoms of excessive training (overtraining), and previous triathlon experience with overall and split race times in the Ironman distance triathlon. MethodsNinety-nine triathletes (19 women and 80 men) answered an online survey containing questions about anthropometric characteristics (body mass and height), weekly training volume (hours per day and days per week), previous experience in Ironman distance triathlon race, and signs and symptoms of excessive training. Data of race times of all participants were collected by a single race (the Ironman Brazil 2019 – Florianópolis). All surveys were collected between 28 and 30 days before the race. The athlete was instructed to answer the questions according to what was happening in the week before completing the survey. Results: Total race time did not differ among those who trained up to 14 h per week (11:28:46±01:54:30 h:min:sec), between 15 and 20 h per week (11:37:31±01:20:26 h:min:sec) or more than 20 h per week (11:30:18±01:31:28 h:min:sec) (p = 0.922). Total race time of the triathletes who presented (12:42:22±01:49:36 h:min:sec) or no (11:23:06±01:29:02 h:min:sec) unintentional body mass loss (p = 0.006), feeling (12:46:17±02:03:13 h:min:sec) or no (11:24:09±01:28:07 h:min:sec) of decreased performance (p = 0.009) or feeling (12:08:58±01:47:12 h:min:sec) or no (11:16:34±01:24:53 h:min:sec) loss of energy (p = 0.011) in the week prior to the race were significantly different. Triathletes who had a previous experience in Ironman races achieved a better performance (11:15:21±01:32:04 h:min:sec) than those without previous experience (12:06:38±01:32:10 h:min:sec) (p = 0.010). ConclusionIn summary, high volumes of training (more than 20 h per week), when performed forty days before a race, may not have a positive impact on performance compared to lower volumes of training (up to 14 h per week). However, athletes who had a previous experience in Ironman race presented better results in swimming splits and overall race time. Moreover, the presence of overtraining symptoms, such as unintentional loss of weight, sensation of fatigue and/or performance decrease impact negatively triathlon performance.

Biochemical markers after the Norseman Extreme Triathlon.

Prolonged exercise is known to cause changes in common biomarkers. Occasionally, competition athletes need medical assistance and hospitalisation during prolonged exercise events. To aid clinicians treating patients and medical teams in such events we have studied common biomarkers after at The Norseman Xtreme Triathlon (Norseman), an Ironman distance triathlon with an accumulated climb of 5200 m, and an Olympic triathlon for comparison. Blood samples were collected before, immediately after, and the day following the Norseman Xtreme Triatlon (n = 98) and Oslo Olympic Triathlon (n = 15). Increased levels of clinical significance were seen at the finish line of the Norseman in white blood cells count (WBC) (14.2 [13.5-14.9] 109/L, p < 0.001), creatinine kinase (CK) (2450 [1620-3950] U/L, p < 0.001) and NT-proBNP (576 [331-856] ng/L, p < 0.001). The following day there were clinically significant changes in CRP (39 [27-56] mg/L, p < 0.001) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) (142 [99-191] U/L, p < 0.001). In comparison, after the Olympic triathlon distance, there were statistically significant, but less clinically important, changes in WBC (7.8 [6.7-9.6] 109/L, p < 0.001), CK (303 [182-393] U/L, p < 0.001) and NT-proBNP (77 [49-88] ng/L, p < 0.01) immediately after the race, and in CRP (2 [1-3] mg/L, p < 0.001) and AST (31 [26-41] U/L, p < 0.01) the following day. Subclinical changes were also observed in Hemoglobin, Thrombocytes, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Creatinine, Alanine Aminotransferase and Thyroxine after the Norseman. In conclusion, there were significant changes in biomarkers used in a clinical setting after the Norseman. Of largest clinical importance were clinically significant increased WBC, CRP, AST, CK and NT-proBNP after the Norseman. This is important to be aware of when athletes engaging in prolonged exercise events receive medical assistance or are hospitalised.

The effects of a 226-km ironman triathlon race on bone turnover in amateur male triathletes.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of an Ironman-distance triathlon on bone metabolism. Nine recreational male triathletes (39.7±8.2 years old) were voluntarily recruited before a 226-km Ironman triathlon race. Baseline blood samples were collected >1 hour before race. Serial post-race blood sampling time points included immediately (0hr), 1 hour (1hr), 1 day (d), 3 d, and 5 d after the Ironman race. Serum muscle damage markers, serum myoglobin, creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) revealed significant post-race peak values immediately, 1hr and 1d after the race, respectively. Except for the marginally higher serum CK and myoglobin at 5d (P=0.01~0.05), all post-race serum levels of muscle damage markers were significantly higher than baseline levels (P<0.01). Serum phosphorus values were significantly higher immediately (0hr) after the Ironman race. Serum osteocalcin, an index specific to bone formation, showed a significant decrease at time points 0hr and 1hr, but a significant increase 1 day after (P<0.01) and a marginal increase 3 and 5 days after (P=0.01~0.05) the race. No difference was shown in type I collagen C-telopeptide (CTX-1), a bone resorption marker. Pearson's correlation between serum osteocalcin and CTX-1 was done at each time point, and significant correlation was shown on the 5th d after the race (r=0.591, P<0.05). An Ironman-distance contest induces a bone-formative-favoring turnover during the post-race period for amateur male triathletes.

Sex Difference in Triathlon Performance.

This brief review investigates how sex influences triathlon performance. Performance time for both Olympic distance and Ironman distance triathlons, and physiological considerations are discussed for both elite and non-elite male and female triathletes. The relative participation of female athletes in triathlon has increased over the last three decades, and currently represents 25–40% of the total field. Overall, the sex difference in both Olympic and Ironman distance triathlon performance has narrowed across the years. Sex difference differed with exercise mode and exercise duration. For non-elite Ironman triathletes, the sex difference in swimming time (≈12%) is lower than that which was evidenced for cycling (≈15%) and running (≈18%). For elite triathletes, sex difference in running performance is greater for Olympic triathlon (≈14%) than it is for Ironman distance triathlon (≈7%). Elite Ironman female triathletes have reduced the gap to their male counterparts to less than 10% for the marathon. The sex difference in triathlon performance is likely to be due to physiological (e.g., VO2max) and morphological (e.g., % body fat) factors but hormonal, psychological and societal (e.g., lower participation rate) differences should also be considered. Future studies should address the limited evidence relating sex difference in physiological characteristics such as lactate threshold, exercise economy or peak fat oxidation.

Acute Cardiovascular Adaptation to Strenuous Exercise: An Integrative Ultrasound Study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute effects of participation in an Ironman distance triathlon competition on arterial function by ultrasound, in relation to cardiac function and body water content. Twenty-eight male triathletes participating in an Ironman distance competition underwent carotid, femoral, and cardiac ultrasound examinations. Moreover, the presence of extravascular lung water was identified by lung echo B-lines (echogenic coherent wedge-shaped signal with a narrow origin from the hyperechoic pleural line) at rest and within 20 minutes of arrival. At the end of the competition, athletes showed an increased heart rate (mean ± SD, from 60.2 ± 13.1 to 82.8 ± 15.6 beats/min; P < .0001) and unchanged mean blood pressure (from 93 ± 14 to 91 ± 10 mm Hg; P > .05) in the presence of negligible dehydration (total body water from 48.0 ± 4.0 to 46.5 ± 3.9 kg; P > .05). Cardiac output increased (from 5.5 ± 1.2 to 6.7 ± 2.4 L/min; P < .05) in the presence of an unchanged stroke volume (from 64 ± 14 to 59 ± 16 mL; P > .05) and unchanged left ventricular elastance (from 1.52 ± 0.48 to 1.39 ± 0.48 mm Hg/mL/m2 ; P > .05). The mean carotid diameter increased (from 7.19 ± 0.65 to 7.61 ± 0.76 mm; P < .05), whereas the mean femoral diameter was unchanged at the end of the competition (from 10.41 ± 0.83 to 10.49 ± 0.82 mm; P > .05). Carotid intima-media thickness was significantly reduced (from 537 ± 70 to 495 ± 70 μm; P < .05), whereas B-lines increased significantly after the competition (from 1 [0-4] to 12 [5-23]; P < .0001). These data suggest different acute functional adaptation in central arteries with respect to peripheral leg vessels.

Blood biomarkers in male and female participants after an Ironman-distance triathlon.

BackgroundWhile overall physical activity is clearly associated with a better short-term and long-term health, prolonged strenuous physical activity may result in a rise in acute levels of blood-biomarkers used in clinical practice for diagnosis of various conditions or diseases. In this study, we explored the acute effects of a full Ironman-distance triathlon on biomarkers related to heart-, liver-, kidney- and skeletal muscle damage immediately post-race and after one week’s rest. We also examined if sex, age, finishing time and body composition influenced the post-race values of the biomarkers.MethodsA sample of 30 subjects was recruited (50% women) to the study. The subjects were evaluated for body composition and blood samples were taken at three occasions, before the race (T1), immediately after (T2) and one week after the race (T3). Linear regression models were fitted to analyse the independent contribution of sex and finishing time controlled for weight, body fat percentage and age, on the biomarkers at the termination of the race (T2). Linear mixed models were fitted to examine if the biomarkers differed between the sexes over time (T1-T3).ResultsBeing male was a significant predictor of higher post-race (T2) levels of myoglobin, CK, and creatinine levels and body weight was negatively associated with myoglobin. In general, the models were unable to explain the variation of the dependent variables. In the linear mixed models, an interaction between time (T1-T3) and sex was seen for myoglobin and creatinine, in which women had a less pronounced response to the race.ConclusionOverall women appear to tolerate the effects of prolonged strenuous physical activity better than men as illustrated by their lower values of the biomarkers both post-race as well as during recovery.

What predicts performance in ultra-triathlon races? - a comparison between Ironman distance triathlon and ultra-triathlon.

ObjectiveThis 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.MethodsA 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.ResultsAthletes 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.ConclusionAny 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.

The best triathletes are older in longer race distances - a comparison between Olympic, Half-Ironman and Ironman distance triathlon.

The purpose of this study was (i) to determine the age of peak triathlon performance for world class athletes competing in Olympic, Half-Ironman and Ironman distance races and (ii) to investigate a potential change in the age of the annual fastest athletes across years. Data of ages and race times of all finishers in the international top races over the three distances between 2003 and 2013 were collected and the annual top ten women and men were analysed using linear, non-linear and hierarchical multivariate regression analyses. The age of peak male performance was 27.1 ± 4.9 years in the Olympic, 28.0 ± 3.8 years in the Half-Ironman and 35.1 ± 3.6 years in the Ironman distance and the age of peak male performance was higher in the Ironman compared to the Olympic (p < 0.05) and the Half-Ironman distance (p < 0.05) triathlon. The age of peak female performance was 26.6 ± 4.4 years in the Olympic, 31.6 ± 3.4 years in the Half-Ironman and 34.4 ± 4.4 years in the Ironman distance and the age of peak female performance was lower in the Olympic compared to the Half-Ironman (p < 0.05) and Ironman distance (p < 0.05) triathlon. The age of the annual top ten women and men remained unchanged over the last decade in the Half-Ironman and the Ironman distance. In the Olympic distance, however, the age of the annual top ten men decreased slightly. To summarize, the age of peak triathlon performance was higher in the longer triathlon race distances (i.e. Ironman) and the age of the annual top triathletes remained mainly stable over the last decade. With these findings top athletes competing at world class level can plan their career more precisely as they are able to determine the right time in life to switch from the shorter (i.e. Olympic distance) to the longer triathlon race distances (i.e. Half-Ironman and Ironman) in order to continuously compete in triathlon races at world class level.

Analysis of ultra-triathlon performances

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.

다른 거리의 철인 3종 경기 시 체중, 나트륨 및 혈액 성분에 미치는 영향

철인 3종 경기에 참가하는 선수들은 탈수, 저나트륨혈증, 용혈현상 및 연역반응과 같은 의학적인 문제에 직면할 수 있다. 본 연구는 철인 3종 경기 시 체중의 변화, 나트륨농도 및 혈액성분의 변화를 조사하기 위하여 서로 다른 Olympic Distance Triathlon (ODT)과 Ironman Distance Triathlon (IDT)에 참가한 선수들에게 체중과 나트륨 농도 및 혈액 성분이 어떠한 영향을 미치는가를 연구하였다. 체중은 ODT와 IDT 모두 유의하게 감소하였고, 나트륨 농도는 IDT에서만 증가하였다. RBC, Hb, Hct 및 MCH는 IDT에서 증가하였고, Hct는 ODT에서 감소하였다. IDT에서는 체중의 변화율과 나트륨 농도간의 유의한 상관관계가 있었으며, 체중 감소에 따른 나트륨농도의 증가현상이 나타났다. RBC, Hb 및 Hct의 연화는 거리에 따라 영향을 받는 것으로 조사되었다. 이러한 결과들을 종합해 볼 때 철인 3종 경기와 같은 장시간 지속되는 운동 시 체중 변화가 나트륨 농도에 영향을 미치는 것으로 파악되었으며, 경기 거리에 따른 혈액 성분의 변화에 차이는 있었지만 이러한 변화는 모두 정상범위인 것으로 나타났다. This study examined how differing triathlon durations effect weight, serum sodium concentration, and hematological levels, and investigated relationships between these variables and finishing time as well as between body weight changes and serum sodium following Ironman distance triathlons (IDT) and Olympic distance triathlons (ODT). All eight athletes successfully completed ODT and IOT. We found that the mean body weight decreased following both IDT and ODT and that serum sodium was significantly (p<0.05) increased immediately after IDT, RBC, Hb, Hct, and MCH were significantly (p<0.05) increased immediately after IDT. Hct was significantly (p<0.05) decreased immediately after ODT. MCHC was significantly (p<0.01) increased immediate1y after ODT. In IDT, the percentage of change in body weight correlated to the percentage of change in serum sodium concentrations (r=0.75, p=0.05). In conclusion, our srudy showed that serum sodium concentraion increased in IDT and maintained in ODT, despite significant body weight loss during the races. The percentage of change in body weight was related to serum sodium concentration but unrelated to performance in the triathlon. The changes of RBC, Hb, and Hct values from two different length triathlons were depending on race distance.

Ironman Triathlon Recovery Enhanced By Dietary Supplementation

BACKGROUND: Protein/carbohydrate beverages have been used to promote immediate post-exercise recovery, but longer-term recovery strategies (days to weeks) are used less frequently. PURPOSE: We evaluated the effect of dietary supplementation on recovery and mood state following an Ironman-distance triathlon. METHODS: Eighteen subjects were randomly assigned to Supplement (S, n=11) or Control (C, n=7). Subjects performed their “normal” post-race recovery regimen alone (C) or with a morning (AM) and evening (PM) dietary supplement for 14 days following an Ironman-distance triathlon (2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run). AM consisted of 5 herbal extracts (Cordyceps, Rhodiola, Eleuthero, Ashwagandha, and Eurycoma) and PM consisted of 8 nutrients (Glutamine, Leucine, Valine, Isoleucine, Papain, Bromelain, Beta-sitosterol, and Citrus bioflavonoids). The Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire was used to evaluate Tension, Depression, Anger, Vigor, Fatigue, Confusion and Global Mood State at baseline and 2-weeks. Data were analyzed using unpaired t-tests with significance set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: S had significantly lower scores for Stress (-21%, p=0.037), Tension (−54%, p=0.009), Depression (−64%, trend p=0.07), Anger (−62%, p=0.027), Fatigue (−53%, p=0.025) and Confusion (−67%, p=0.001) and higher scores for Vigor (+69%, p=0.001) and Global Mood (+29%, p=0.002) compared to C. CONCLUSIONS: Adequate recovery is important for athletes to support the demands of training and competition, but also for protection from overtraining, illness, and injury. These results strongly indicate that targeted dietary supplementation is effective for enhancing recovery following intense endurance exercise.

Nutritional Considerations in Triathlon

Triathlon combines three disciplines (swimming, cycling and running) and competitions last between 1 hour 50 minutes (Olympic distance) and 14 hours (Ironman distance). Independent of the distance, dehydration and carbohydrate (CHO) depletion are the most likely causes of fatigue in triathlon, whereas gastrointestinal (GI) problems, hyperthermia and hyponatraemia are potentially health threatening, especially in longer events. Although glycogen supercompensation may be beneficial for triathlon performance (even Olympic distance), this does not necessarily have to be achieved by the traditional supercompensation protocol. More recently, studies have revealed ways to increase muscle glycogen concentrations to very high levels with minimal modifications in diet and training. During competition, cycling provides the best opportunity to ingest fluids. The optimum CHO concentration seems to be in the range of 5-8% and triathletes should aim to achieve a CHO intake of 60-70 g/hour. Triathletes should attempt to limit body mass losses to 1% of body mass. In all cases, a drink should contain sodium (30-50 mmol/L) for optimal absorption and prevention of hyponatraemia.Post-exercise rehydration is best achieved by consuming beverages that have a high sodium content (>60 mmol/L) in a volume equivalent to 150% of body mass loss. GI problems occur frequently, especially in long-distance triathlon. Problems seem related to the intake of highly concentrated carbohydrate solutions, or hyperosmotic drinks, and the intake of fibre, fat and protein. Endotoxaemia has been suggested as an explanation for some of the GI problems, but this has not been confirmed by recent research. Although mild endotoxaemia may occur after an Ironman-distance triathlon, this does not seem to be related to the incidence of GI problems. Hyponatraemia has occasionally been reported, especially among slow competitors in triathlons and probably arises due to loss of sodium in sweat coupled with very high intakes (8-10 L) of water or other low-sodium drinks.

No evidence of sustained myocardial injury following an Ironman distance triathlon.

We aimed to determine whether an Ironman distance triathlon resulted in sustained myocardial injury detected by electrocardiography, biochemical markers or echocardiographic assessment of left ventricular systolic and diastolic function. Electrocardiograms, blood for analysis of creatine kinase (CK) and its MB fraction, cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and echocardiograms were obtained in 15 male athletes prior to and at a mean of 4.7 days after competing in the Australian Ironman Triathlon. Regional wall motion scores, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and mitral inflow parameters were determined from the echocardiograms by a blinded investigator. Levels of cTnI were undetectable in all athletes and total CK was mildly elevated in 7/15 athletes prior to the event. Baseline wall motion, ejection fraction and diastolic filling were normal in all athletes. CK levels were increased post-race (p < 0.05) with a mean post-race level of 451U/l. Levels of cTnI were undetectable post-race in 14 athletes with a level of 0.9 microg/l recorded in one athlete, although all were within the laboratory's normal range for the assay. Mitral inflow parameters and LVEF did not change post-race and regional wall motion was normal in 14 of 15 athletes. Regional wall motion abnormalities detected in 1 athlete had resolved by 25 days post-race. These findings indicate that ultraendurance exercise does not result in sustained myocardial injury in this group of elite athletes.

BONE DENSITY MEASURES OF IRONMAN TRIATHLON PARTICIPANTS

Preparation to complete an Ironman distance triathlon (swim 3.8 km, cycle 180 km, run 42.4 km) requires a substantial time commitment during year round training. Usually off-season training (∼ 20 weeks) consists of 8–14 hours/week, in-season training, 12–18 hours/week, and in the three months immediately prior to the Ironman event, 14–25 hours/week. Generally, Ironman participants compete in triathlons for more than four years at a variety of distances, prior to the Ironman distance. Crosstraining between the three events is typically apportioned as ∼20% swimming, ∼30% running, and ∼50% cycling. A combination of high caloric expenditure throughout their training and often a strict nutritional intake may result in a failure to maintain adequate nutrition and a possible reduction in bone mass. PURPOSE This study evaluated the total and regional bone density, and body composition of participants in an Ironman distance triathlon. METHODS Fifteen Ironman triathletes (age 39.8± 9.7 yr; ht. 174.6± 7.8 cm; mass 68.8± 8.5 kg, finish time 635.7± 48.8 minutes) completed an extensive training, nutrition, and health survey, and participated in a DEXA bone scan. RESULTS Total bone density (g/cm) was 1.283, which was 1.1 standard deviations above age-matched norms. Bone density of the arms, legs, and spine was 1.0718, 1.437, and 1.0871, respectively. Body composition was 12.9%±4.2, 9.1%±3.2, 14.3%±2.5, 16.2%±4.1, for total body, arms, legs, and torso, respectively. CONCLUSION Triathletes who represent the average Ironman participant possess a bone density that is better than age matched norms, despite a general disregard for calcium intake. The sheer volume of caloric intake may in part provide sufficient mineral intake and the physical trauma imposed during the training may facilitate bone reformation.

AGE AND TRAINING HOURS AS PREDICTORS OF FINISH TIMES OF MASTERS ATHLETES IN A TRIATHLON

A decline in athletic performance with increasing age is well documented and is primarily attributed to a progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass. How total weekly training volume influences the progression of the age-related performance decline of masters athletes is less well understood. Further, the efficacy of total training hours in slowing the progression of the age-related performance decline has not been examined. Our aim was to investigate the total training volume, by decade, of masters athletes competing in a one-half Ironman distance triathlon. We tested the hypothesis that when compared with age alone, the combination of total weekly training hours and age would be a better predictor of finish time in a triathlon. Data were collected from 82 athletes (17 females and 65 males), with an age range of 20 to 61 (mean 38.3 ± 9.4), body composition with a range of 2.7% to 32.2% fat (mean 13.8 ± 5.8), and a BMI range of 19.4 to 31.0 (mean 24.3 ± 2.5). As there were no differences between genders for the increase in finish time with age or for total weekly training hours, data were pooled for all further analyses. Athletes were divided into four groups for analysis based upon decades (i.e., group 1 = 20–29 yr; group 2 = 30–39 yr; group 3 = 40–49 yr; and group 4 = 50+). Finish times (minutes) and total weekly training hours by group were, respectively, group 1 = 329.4 ± 37.6 and 10.7 ± 5.9, group 2 = 342.1 ± 41.0 and 11.0 ± 5.4, group 3 = 349.8 ± 33.6 and 12.1 ± 4.7, and group 4 = 388.4 ± 41.0 and 14.0 ± 4.1. There were no differences between the groups for total weekly training hours, but a significant difference did exist between groups for finish time. Compared with groups 1, 2, and 3, the finish time for group 4 was significantly higher (p < 0.05). The rate of increase in finish time was 5.2% per decade. A step-wise regression analysis revealed age to be a significant predictor of finish time (r = 0.372). However, when training time was added to the model, there was no increase in the accuracy of the predictability of finish time. Therefore, the hypothesis was not supported. In conclusion, when compared with age alone, the combination of total weekly training hours and age does not appear to be a more sensitive predictor of finish time for masters triathletes. Supported by a Seed Grant from The Ohio State University.

AGE-RELATED DECLINE IN PERFORMANCE OF MASTERS ATHLETES IS NOT MODALITY SPECIFIC

The age-related decline in athletic performance can be largely attributed to the loss of skeletal muscle mass observed during the aging process. Recently, when compared with the upper limbs, the decline in muscle mass was found to occur more rapidly in the lower limbs. We tested the hypothesis that the age-related performance decline would be greater in lower extremity biased exercise (bicycling and running) compared with an exercise involving all four limbs (swimming). Finish times of bike, run, and swim for 78 triathletes [(58 males; 20–61 yrs.; 11.8 ± 0.6% fat; 24.7 ± 0.3 BMI), and (20 females; 25–51 yrs.; 20.6 ± 0.8% fat; 22.3 ± 0.3 BMI)] were measured during a one-half Ironman distance triathlon. Based upon the range of finish times for bike (males 149.4–217.6 min.; females 168.7–216.8 min.), run (males 79.0–160.4 min.; females 97.7–179.6 min.), and swin (males 33.7–69.0 min.; females 26.7–51.3 min.) the subjects clearly represented a broad range of performance abilities. There were no differences in the rate of performance decline for any of the three modalities between genders, therefore the data were pooled for all further analyses. In order to determine if an aging effect on performance was present, subjects were divided into four groups based upon decades (i.e., 20's, 30's, 40's, & 50+). Finish times of the bike for both the 20's and 30's were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than the 50+. The finish time of the swim for the 20's was lower (p < 0.05) than the other three groups, and the 30's was lower (p < 0.05) than the 40's. Performances for the bike, run, and swim between the ages of 20 and 60 yrs. decreased at a rate of 4.2%, 5.4%, and 6.9%, respectively. These values are comparable to the 6–9%, decline from age 30 to 50 reported in a 10-km running race and the marathon. Multiple regression analysis of the slopes of the age-related increase in finish time revealed no differences between any of the three modalities, nor between the four age groups within each modality. Therefore, the hypothesis is not supported and it appears the age-related decline in performance of triathletes occurs at a universal rate for bicycling, running, and swimming. Additionally, the rate of this decline appears to be linear from the ages of 20–60. Supported by a Seed Grant from The Ohio State University.