Mountain Running Research Articles

Síndrome do seio do tarso em atleta de elite de trail

Trail running, also known as mountain running or simply trail, it’s a running sport consisting in long course running in an uneven terrain usually at high altitude, occasionally in extreme weather conditions, although being sometimes performed in the desert or coastal areas. It’s an extremely high physiological demand sport, especially for the subtalar and tibiotalar joints, which makes these athletes particularly prone to ankle and hindfoot injury. Sinus tarsi syndrome can be defined as pain referred to sinus tarsi region and hindfoot instability, mainly after a traumatic event and with a difficult diagnosis. The authors present a case of sinus tarsi syndrome on an elite trail athlete, making a brief review of the literature.

Exploring the predictors and prognostic significance of exercise-induced cardiac troponin release in master athletes following a 28 km mountain race. The Vamvakou research project

ABSTRACT Background/objective Aetiology and significance of exercise-induced troponin release remains a contentious issue. We investigated the effect of a 28 km mountain run on cardiac troponin I (cTnI), in relation to training, performance, nutritional, biochemical and echocardiography variables, in a group of 25 recreational male master athletes. Material and methods A comprehensive list of variables related with nutrition, training, performance and echocardiography, was collected pre- and post-race. Twenty-four months later, outcomes regarding cardiovascular events were obtained. Results Serum cTnI values were increased after the race, with mean values rising from 7.2 ± 2.2 (before) to 80.0 ± 33.2 ng/L (post race), (p < 0.001) and 23/25(92%) exceeding Upper Reference limit (50 ng/L). Echocardiography did not reveal significant alterations, or correlations with cTnI values. The percentage difference in hs-cTnI concentrations pre- and post-race correlated positively with age, race-induced changes of selected muscle damage indices, resistance training volume and negatively with endurance capacity and training volume (r: −0.727 to 0.725, p < 0.05). All athletes reported no cardiovascular event during the 24-month period post-race. Conclusion cTnI elevation induced by a 28 km mountain running race was not correlated with echocardiographic, nutritional parameters and was less pronounced in athletes with larger endurance training history, in contrast with resistance training and age.

Changes in blood rheological properties and biochemical markers after participation in the XTERRA Poland triathlon competition

The importance of physical activity in preventing chronic cardiovascular and metabolic diseases and the role of exercise as an adjunct therapy are widely recognized. Triathlon is a typically endurance discipline. Prolonged and intensive exercise is known to cause changes in blood rheological properties and biochemical markers; sometimes athletes participating in strenuous competitions need medical attention. To understand the phenomena occurring in the body in such situations, we decided to study participants’ biomarkers after the XTERRA Poland 2017 triathlon competition. The study involved 10 triathletes. The XTERRA Poland 2017 event comprised 1500-m swimming, 36-km cycling, and 10-km mountain running. Blood samples were collected 2 days before, immediately after, and 16 h after the competition. Immediately after the race, white blood cells count, platelets, and uric acid levels were significantly (P < 0.001) increased; haematocrit, Na+, Cl–, and IgA were decreased. On the following day, Na+, Cl–, and C-reactive protein levels were significantly (P < 0.001) increased; white blood cells count, red blood cells count, haemoglobin, haematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, platelets, IgG, and IgA were decreased. Assessing rheological parameters such as erythrocyte deformability and aggregation is useful for monitoring adverse effects of intensive and exhaustive exercise. The study illustrates the change in blood rheological properties and biochemical markers after intensive physical effort. Despite these differences, the indicators were within the reference range for the general population, which may demonstrate normal body function in the studied triathletes.

Sports supplements use in mountain runners: differences by sex and competitive level.

Introduction: sports supplements (SS) are widely used by all types of athletes to improve their performance. These SS are classified according to the ABCD system of the Australian Institute of Sports (AIS) from higher to lower scientific evidence. In mountain runners, their use could be necessary due to the physiological demands required by this sport. However, the literature on the use of SS by mountain runners is scarce. Objective: to analyze the pattern of SS consumption in mountain runners by studying differences according to sex and competitive level (regional vs national). Methodology: this was a descriptive and cross-sectional study on the consumption and use of SS by mountain runners participating in the Alcoy Solidarity Trail. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire based on content, applicability, structure, and presentation. This questionnaire was completed online by the athletes, who could fill it out voluntarily and at their convenience, as well as anonymously. Results: the results showed that 87.5 % of participants reported consuming SS, with no significant differences observed with respect to competitive level, although differences were found with respect to sex (92.7 % in men vs 70.6 % in women; p = 0.029), with a higher consumption found in men compared to women. The most consumed SS were sports bars (81.9 %), sports drinks (75.0 %), caffeine (48.6 %), magnesium (38.9 %), and electrolytes (27.8 %). Conclusions: among mountain runners consumption of SS is high, and 4 of the 5 most habitually consumed SS belong in the category of greater scientific evidence.

Environmental Protection in Nature-Based Sport Events: The Case of Olympus Marathon

Mountain running events have increased, making efforts toward a more environmentally sustainable organized context. This case study examines the environmental orientation and the carbon offsetting behavioral intentions among participants of the Olympus Marathon, the annual mountain running event in Mount Olympus, Greece. The organizers of Olympus Marathon are interested in developing an environmentally friendlier approach to the event by implementing a new pro-environmental plan which targets the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions generated by their consumers’ (runners) travel behaviors. This case study provides students the opportunity to (a) analyze mountain runners’ environmental orientation to justify the implementation of pro-environmental practices in nature-based sport events, (b) investigate mountain runners’ voluntary carbon offsetting behavioral intentions, and (c) develop effective a voluntary carbon offsetting emission marketing plan to support pro-environmental actions in sport events.

The importance of aerobic capacity and nutrition in recreational master mountain runners’ performance and race-induced changes in body composition and biochemical blood indices

This study aimed to explore the importance of aerobic capacity and nutrition on 28-km mountain running performance and race-induced changes in body composition and biochemical blood indices, in recreational master athletes of different performance levels. Twenty male master runners (age: 44.6 ± 7.7 years) were divided into two groups, slower and faster runners, according to their race performance. Maximum oxygen uptake [Formula: see text], velocity at [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text], oxygen consumption [Formula: see text], and velocity [Formula: see text] during the second ventilatory threshold were evaluated. Nutrition was assessed for one week before and during the race. Body composition was evaluated, and blood samples were collected before and 3 h after the race. Slower runners exhibited a greater reduction in lean body mass and greater changes in all muscle damage/inflammation/metabolism blood indices than the faster runners ( η2 = 0.201–0.927; p &lt; 0.05). When all the participants were assessed as one group ( n = 20), significant correlations were found between ([Formula: see text], vVO2Thr, race time, energy intake, expenditure, carbohydrate, protein intakes, and post-race changes in body composition and blood markers ( r: −0.825–0.824; p &lt; 0.05). The strongest determinants were ([Formula: see text] and vVO2Thr, while energy intake, expenditure, carbohydrate, and protein intakes seemed to be the weakest determinants of race performance and race-induced changes in body composition and blood indices. The results suggest that race-induced changes in body composition and blood indices are determined mainly by master runners’ race performance and endurance capacity and to a lesser extent by nutrition. However, it seems that carbohydrate and protein intakes have equal importance.

Fatal Events Related to Running Competitions in the Mountains

The few epidemiologic studies published previously about different forms of mountain running (ie, fell running, sky running, and ultratrail running) have not reported on fatal events. This report aims to contribute to the literature on mountain running fatalities, recording and classifying fatal events related to mountain running competitions found in online literature searches over a 12-y period. From 2008 to 2019, searches on mountain sport, mountain races, and newspaper websites were periodically performed, looking for fatal events related to running competitions in the mountains. Data are presented as mean±SD or percentage, as appropriate. Fifty-one fatal events, involving 45 men (88%) and 6 women (12%), aged 50±11 and 46±6 y, respectively, were recorded in the 2008 to 2019 period in Western Europe. These events occurred during races (n=35; 69%), during training (n=13; 25%), and after races (n=3; 6%); 43% were sudden cardiac death, 32% due to falls (blunt trauma), 16% due to hypothermia, 4% due to both blunt trauma and hypothermia, 4% due to lightning strike injuries, and 2% due to animal attack (injuries from deer). Understanding all of the causes of fatal events is necessary to institute preventative efforts and to organize rescues. Preventative efforts should be implemented by race organizers and by athletes themselves, and rescue teams can be trained and equipped to address all of these possible events. The relatively high percentage of sudden cardiac deaths stresses the need for preparticipation cardiovascular screenings. Further longitudinal studies are necessary to better understand the real impact of fatal events on the mountain running population.

Influence of Psychological Factors on the Success of the Ultra-Trail Runner

The aim of this study was to analyze the psychological variables of runners of ultra-trail mountain races and their association with athletic performance and success. The sample was made up of 356 mountain runners, 86.7% men and 13.2% women, with a mean age of 42.7 years and 5.7 years of experience. Using pre- and post-race questionnaires, data were collected regarding mental toughness, resilience, and passion. The performance of each runner in the race was also recorded. The results showed very high values in the psychological variables analyzed compared with other sports disciplines. Completion of the race (not withdrawing) and the elite quality of the runners were presented as the most relevant indicators in the processes of resilience, mental toughness, and obsessive passion. Differences were noted between the pre- and post-race results, suggesting that the competition itself is a means of training those psychological factors that are essential to this sports discipline. It can be concluded that psychological factors are decisive to athletic performance and race completion in mountain ultra-marathon races.

Why are the tarahumara amerindians in mexico such powerful mountain runners?

The Tarahumara Amerindians in Mexico are extremely potent runners on long mountain trails. We have analyzed publications to find causes. Traditionally the Tarahumara live alternating at altitudes between 2400 m and 800 m. Distances from homes to fields and village centers are large and covered on foot since childhood. Men and women take part in running competitions often with kickballs. Investigated runs lasted on average 8:42 h (78 km without ascent) and 6:58 h (63km), respectively. The intensity during the short race amounted to 70% of estimated V˙O2max (ranging between 41 and 70 ml/(kg*min)), energy expenditure reached 21000 kJ. People run barefoot or with thin sandals resulting in increased forefoot impact and storage of elastic energy. This and the slim frame with little subcutaneous fat reduce energy consumption. The vegetarian nutrition contains many carbohydrates and plant proteins, little fat and cholesterol. Hemoglobin concentration tends to increased values. Noncoding beta-chain variants possess no importance for oxygen affinity. The hearts are not enlarged like in endurance athletes. Genes show little European admixture. Gene enrichment in musclerelated pathways suggests a contribution to physical resistance. Conclusions: Explanations for the extreme endurance are favorable biomechanical conditions and physical training beginning during childhood. Running on slopes and changing living sites between 800 and 2400 m play an additional role. Standard exercise tests and genetic investigations are necessary in future. Key Words: Altitude, Hypoxia, Long Distance Running, Genetics

Sun Protection Behaviors and Knowledge in Mountain Marathon Runners and Risk Factors for Sunburn

Background and objectivesThe incidence of skin cancer in our society is growing at an alarming rate due to overexposure to solar UV radiation in recreational and occupational settings. The aim of this study was to evaluate sun exposure and protection attitudes, behaviors, and knowledge among mountain ultramarathon runners and to assess risk factors for sunburn in this population. Material and methodsCross-sectional survey of runners who participated in the Gran Trail Aneto-Posets race in Aragon, Spain. Using a validated questionnaire, we collected data on sociodemographic characteristics, running experience, sunburn in the previous summer, and sun exposure and protection behaviors. We calculated descriptive statistics and performed bivariate and multivariate analyses of associations using history of sunburn as the primary outcome. Statistical significance was set at a P level of less than .05. ResultsWe surveyed 657 runners (72.1% men) with a mean age of 39.71 years; 45.1% reported sunburn in the past year. The most common protective measures used were sunglasses (74.7%), sunscreen (sun protection factor ≥ 15) (61.9%), a hat (52.2%), and other protective clothing (7.4%). Risk factors for sunburn were younger age, low Fitzpatrick skin type (I and II), running for 3 or more hours a day, and staying in the shade as a protective measure. By contrast, protective factors were use of sunscreen and seeking shade rather than sun at midday (P < .001). ConclusionsSunburn is common among long-distance mountain runners, despite what appears to be adequate sun protection knowledge and behaviors. Targeted strategies are needed to improve sun protection behaviors among mountain runners.

Potential Use of Wearable Sensors to Assess Cumulative Kidney Trauma in Endurance Off-Road Running.

(1) Background: This study aimed to explore wearable sensors′ potential use to assess cumulative mechanical kidney trauma during endurance off-road running. (2) Methods: 18 participants (38.78 ± 10.38 years, 73.24 ± 12.6 kg, 172.17 ± 9.48 cm) ran 36 k off-road race wearing a Magnetic, Angular Rate and Gravity (MARG) sensor attached to their lower back. Impacts in g forces were recorded throughout the race using the MARG sensor. Two blood samples were collected immediately pre- and post-race: serum creatinine (sCr) and albumin (sALB). (3) Results: Sixteen impact variables were grouped using principal component analysis in four different principal components (PC) that explained 90% of the total variance. The 4th PC predicted 24% of the percentage of change (∆%) of sCr and the 3rd PC predicted the ∆% of sALB by 23%. There were pre- and post-race large changes in sCr and sALB (p ≤ 0.01) and 33% of participants met acute kidney injury diagnosis criteria. (4) Conclusions: The data related to impacts could better explain the cumulative mechanical kidney trauma during mountain running, opening a new range of possibilities using technology to better understand how the number and magnitude of the g-forces involved in off-road running could potentially affect kidney function.

Anthropometric characteristics and cardiorespiratory capacity of male and female trail runners

Introduction: The objectives of this study were to compare the anthropometric characteristics and the cardiorespiratory capacity of male and female mountain runners, and to examine the association between anthropometric and cardiorespiratory variables. Material and method: A total of 48 mountain runners, 16 women and 32 men take part in the study. Anthropometric parameters were measured and a maximum incremental test was performed on treadmill with ramp for cardiorespiratory assessment. Results: The results showed significant differences in the anthropometric characteristics corresponding to mass, height, body mass index (BMI), perimeters, diameters, % muscle mass, % residual mass and mesomorphic component between men and women, being significantly higher in the male group (p &lt; 0.05). The female group obtained significantly higher values (p &lt;0.05) in tricipital, thigh, leg and ilecorestal skinfolds, as well as in 8 folds sum, % fat, fat mass, bone mass and in the endomorphic component. With respect to cardiorespiratory capacity, the male group obtained significantly higher values in the initial systolic volume (p &lt; 0.01, TE = -1.45, large), oxygen consumption at the second ventilatory threshold (VO2 VT2) (p &lt; 0.01, TE = -1.66, large) and maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max) (p &lt; 0.05, TE = -1.78, large). A large correlation was obtained between the sum of 8 skinfolds and the VO2 max (r = -0.79, p &lt; 0.01), between the % fat and the VO2 max (r = -0.81, p &lt; 0.01) and between % fat and VO2 VT2 (r = -0.79, p &lt; 0.01). Conclusions: The results seem to show differences between male and female mountain runners in anthropometric characteristics and cardiorespiratory capacity and that anthropometric characteristics can influence the cardiorespiratory performance of mountain runners.

R577X OF THE ACTN3 GENE AS PREDICTOR OF PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE IN ULTRAMARATHON RUNNERS

ABSTRACT Introduction: Genetic factors appear to explain why some athletes perform better in competition and training than their peers. Objective: To determine the occurrence of R577X polymorphism of the ACTN3 gene in mountain runners. Methods: The sample consisted of 19 female mountain runners with a mean age of 41.2 ± 6.1 years. Genotyping of R577X polymorphism of the ACTN3 gene was performed by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method with DNA extracted from saliva. The genotypic and allelic frequencies of the athletes were evaluated and compared with data from the literature. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and Chi-square with Yates correction were used, with a significance level of p&lt;0.05. Results: The genotypic distributions did not show any significant differences between the athletes and the control group, with RR = 15.8%, RX = 57.9%, XX = 26.3%. In regard to allelic distribution, the nonfunctional allele was higher in the study group than in the control group, with R = 44.7%, X = 55.3% for p = 0.0350. Conclusion: The data revealed a possible relationship between the ACTN3 X allele and athletic performance in Brazilian female mountain runners. Level of evidence II; Development of diagnostic criteria in consecutive patients (with “gold” reference standard applied).

PERCEPTIVE CHANGES IN ENDURANCE ATHLETES DURING SOCIAL ISOLATION DUE TO COVID-19

ABSTRACT Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to social isolation measures in different contexts. In endurance sports, competitions worldwide have been canceled, affecting behavioral, psychological, and physical aspects. Objective: This study aimed to assess potential associations between stress, motivation, behavioral changes, and physical fitness in endurance athletes, and time in social isolation. Methods: A cross-sectional study with the participation of 201 athletes, including mountain bikers (n = 89), runners (n = 88) and triathletes (n = 24). Each participant answered questions about time spent in isolation; body weight; changes in training schedule during the isolation period; levels of motivation; stress levels; loss of physical fitness; what aspect of physical fitness was most jeopardized during the isolation period; alcohol consumption; quality of sleep; quality of diet; and whether they had been ill during the isolation period. Results: The results showed significant differences between the percentage of runners (4.5%) and triathletes (16.7%) who had been isolated from 1-10 days, and between the percentage of cyclists (41.6%) and runners (68.2%) in 11-20 days and &gt;20 days (28.1% and 9.1%) respectively. Social isolation was significantly associated with at least one variable for the three groups of athletes; however, the runners were the most affected by the pandemic, presenting an association with low motivation, high stress, poorer quality of sleep, increased alcohol consumption, and loss of physical fitness. Conclusion: Our study showed that the period of social isolation, specifically over time &gt; 10 days, generated significant changes in the perceptions of motivation, stress, alcohol consumption, and physical fitness of endurance athletes, with runners being the most affected group. Level of Evidence III; Diagnostic studies - Investigation of a diagnostic test; Study of non-consecutive patients, without a “gold standard” applied uniformly.

Hábitos y conocimientos sobre fotoprotección y factores de riesgo para quemadura solar en corredores de maratones de montaña

Background and objectivesThe incidence of skin cancer in our society is growing at an alarming rate due to overexposure to solar UV radiation in recreational and occupational settings. The aim of this study was to evaluate sun exposure and protection attitudes, behaviors, and knowledge among mountain ultramarathon runners and to assess risk factors for sunburn in this population. Material and methodsCross-sectional survey of runners who participated in the «Gran Trail Aneto-Posets» race in Aragon, Spain. Using a validated questionnaire, we collected data on sociodemographic characteristics, running experience, sunburn in the previous summer, and sun exposure and protection behaviors. We calculated descriptive statistics and performed bivariate and multivariate analyses of associations using history of sunburn as the primary outcome. Statistical significance was set at a p level of less than 0.05. ResultsWe surveyed 657 runners (72.1% men) with a mean age of 39.71 years; 45.1% reported sunburn in the past year. The most common protective measures used were sunglasses (74.7%), sunscreen (sun protection factor ≥ 15) (61.9%), a hat (52.2%), and other protective clothing (7.4%). Risk factors for sunburn were younger age, low Fitzpatrick skin type (I and II), running for three or more hours a day, and staying in the shade as a protective measure. By contrast, protective factors were use of sunscreen and seeking shade rather than sun at midday (p < 0.001). ConclusionsSunburn is common among long-distance mountain runners, despite what appears to be adequate sun protection knowledge and behaviors. Targeted strategies are needed to improve sun protection behaviors among mountain runners.

Muskuloskeletal injuries in mountain running races: A 5 seasons study.

Mountain running races have grown in popularity in the recent years. Nonetheless, there are few studies on injuries and injury rates. Moreover, these studies have focused on long-distance events such as ultramarathons (>42km). Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine the severity, type, and body location of musculoskeletal injuries during 20-42km mountain running races. In addition, the injury rates in this type of races were examined. Data on injuries were collected during 36 mountain running races over 5 consecutive seasons from 2015 to 2019. The participants reported all musculoskeletal injuries on a standardized injury report form. The results were presented as the number of injuries per 1000h exposure and per 1000 participants. Twenty eight injuries were reported. Most injuries occurred in the ankle (32%) followed by the knee (14%) and foot/toe (11%). The number of injuries represented an overall injury rate of 1.6 injuries per 1000h running and 5.9 injuries per 1000 runners. The case fatality rate was 0. The incidence of musculoskeletal injuries during 20-42km mountain running races is low. In addition, the majority of injuries experienced by runners are minor in nature and located in lower extremities, mainly the ankles.

ASPECTS REGARDING THE DIRECTING OF THE COMPETITIVE EFFORT IN MOUNTAIN RUNNING, WOMEN SENIOR

The research is based on the use of specific training macrocycles, validated through the control samples adapted to obtain the optimum model of preparation and competition for senior mountain running athletes. The purpose of the research is constituted by a particular method of directing and perfecting the training in order to obtain the sports form and the objective results. The control samples were applied at the beginning and the end of the experimental period, in order to record the progress made in preparation by the mountain running athletes, from the experimental group. The research aims to contribute to the development of a specific training methodology for the mountain running discipline.

Muscle Damage And Acute Kidney Injury In Endurance Mountain Running

During mountain running events, athletes can experience muscular impairment as well as adverse health conditions of cardiovascular, immunological, renal and hepatic nature. Specifically, regarding the renal system, it has been shown that physical stress is a factor that contributes to the transitory decrease of renal function known as acute kidney injury (AKI) and muscle disintegration called exertional rhabdomyolysis (ER). The aim of this study was to assess hydration status, kidney function and muscle damage during an endurance mountain running (35.3km trail run, total positive ascend 1815m). A total of 26 experienced and trained mountain runners (age 39.5 ± 9.23 years, weight 71.26 ± 11.17 kg, height 171.65 ± 8.69 cm) took part of the study. Assessments included urine specific gravity (USG), body weight (BW), creatinine (Cr), blood ureic nitrogen (BUN), albumin (ALB), glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and creatine kinase (CK), at three distinct moments (pre, post0h and post24h). A repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to verify possible differences between measurement times. There were no differences in USG (F(2,34)= 0.817, p= 0.45, ωp2= 0.01), however differences were noted in BW (F(1,26)= 5.37, p= 0.029, ωp2= 0.16, pre>post0h), Cr (F(2,42)= 34.453, p< 0.01, ωp2= 0.6, pre < post24h <post0h), BUN (F(2,42)= 15.694, p< 0.01, ωp2= 0.39, pre <post0h< post24h), ALB (F(1,26)= 7.806, p< 0.01, ωp2= 0.2, pre < post24h <post0h), eGFR (F(1,26)= 5.403, p< 0.01, ωp2= 0.15, post0h < post24h <pre) and CK (F(1,26)= 18.957, p< 0.01, ωp2= 0.43, pre < post24h <post0h). Along with a decrease in body weight (BW loss >2%), a decrease in eGFR and a rise in ALB, BUN, CK and AKI was found (acute absolute Cr difference >0.3 mg/dL). This constellation of values supports the idea that endurance mountain running can lead to AKI and muscle injury because of mechanical damage of both kidney and muscle due to repeated effort.

Comparative evaluation of wearable devices for measuring elevation gain in mountain physical activities

The aim of this article is to examine the validity of elevation gain measures in mountain activities, such as hiking and mountain running, using different wearable devices and post-processing procedures. In particular, a total of 202 efforts were recorded and evaluated using three standard devices: GPS watch, GPS watch with barometric altimeter, and smartphone. A benchmark was based on orthorectified aerial photogrammetric survey conducted by the Chilean Air Force. All devices presented considerable elevation gain measuring errors, where the barometric device consistently overestimated elevation gain, while the GPS devices consistently underestimated elevation gain. The incorporation of secondary information in the post-processing can substantially improve the elevation gain measuring accuracy independently of the device and altitude measuring technology, reducing the error from −5% to −1%. These results could help coaches and athletes correct elevation gain estimations using the proposed technique, which would serve as better estimates of physical workload in mountain physical activities.

Relationship between biomechanical and psychophysiological indicators and performance in a vertical mountain race

In order to know the relationship between biomechanical and psychophysiological indicators, as well as the possible pre-post psychophysiological differences and the use of poles in the uphill performance on mountain runners, we performed a prospective and descriptive study of one vertical mountain race. Thus, it was analysed biomechanical (speed and strength/power manifestations) and psychophysiological variables (lactate, heart rate and subjective perception of fatigue) with a total of nine (n = 9) experienced runners divided into groups to use (n = 4) or not (n = 5) poles during the race. Nonparametric analyses were performed to observe the correlations between variables, the differences between groups and the differences between the psychophysiological values before and after the test. The results do not present significant (p &lt; 0.05) differences or correlations of performance between those that used poles or not. There are significant differences between the psychophysiological variables pre and post, in addition they show correlations of performance (final time and relation of time with the first classified) with higher mean and maximum heart rate, as well as a lower lactate accumulation. It is concluded that a better performance in a mountain vertical race is associated to higher physiological efficiency but not to greater strength and power jump manifestations in trained runners.