Recreational Triathletes Research Articles

Prevalence of dietary supplement use among male Brazilian recreational triathletes: a cross-sectional study

Background and rationaleThe literature shows that the prevalence of dietary supplements is high and guidance by a nutritionist or specialized professional is low in professional triathletes. It is reasonable to assume that in recreational triathletes, the prevalence of dietary supplements will also be high and that a significant portion of the sampled population will use supplements without any guidance from a qualified professional. The present study investigated dietary supplement use among Brazilian male recreational triathletes.MethodsA total of 724 Brazilian male recreational triathletes (age: 38.00 [10.00] years and body mass index: 24.16 [3.02] kg/m2) took part in this study. All participants answered an online questionnaire containing questions about their demographic characteristics and the nutritional aspects of their diet.ResultsThe results showed that ~ 90% (n = 653) of the interviewed participants reported using at least one dietary supplement. Surprisingly, ~ 25% did not receive supplement advice from a professional nutritionist.ConclusionThe prevalence of dietary supplements in male recreational triathletes was high, and a substantial part of the sample did not receive professional recommendations. This situation is worrisome because dietary supplements should be prescribed by a professional nutritionist.Practical implicationsOur results suggest the need for an appropriate attitude and guidance by health professionals who deal with this population, especially nutritionists, to promote safe practices.

Intensified training before Olympic-distance triathlon in recreational triathletes: "Less pain, more gain".

To examine 1) the contribution of physiological performance variables to Olympic-distance (OD) triathlon performance, and 2) the links between an 8-wk intensified training plus competition preceding the main OD triathlon race and the changes in the physiological status in triathletes. An observational longitudinal study. Endurance performance variables during maximal incremental running and cycling tests, and average velocity during an all-out 400-m swimming performance test (V400) were assessed before (T1) and after (T2) the intensified training in 7 recreational-level triathletes. Overall main OD triathlon time was extremely largely (r = -0.94; P = 0.01) correlated with peak running velocity (PRV). Best correlation magnitude between exercise modes' partial race times and the corresponding specific physiological criterion tests was observed for swimming (r = -0.97; P<0.001). Improvement in V400 (2.9%), PRV (1.5%) and submaximal running blood lactate concentration (17%) was observed along the training period, whereas no changes were observed in the cycling endurance performance variables. Higher volume of training plus competition at high intensity zones during cycling, running and swimming were associated with lower improvements or declines in their corresponding exercise mode-specific criterion performance variables (r = 0.81-0.90; P = 0.005-0.037). Results indicate that: 1) PRV is highly associated with overall OD triathlon performance, and 2) spending much time at high relative intensities during swimming, cycling or running may lead, in a dose-response manner, to lower improvements or decreases on those exercise-specific physiological performance variables. This may favor the emergence of overreaching or diminished performance.

Factors associated with perceived performance drops and musculoskeletal injuries in Brazilian recreational triathletes.

The aim of the study was to investigate sleep characteristics, use of supplements, and training volume of recreational triathletes, and to verify possible associations with perceived performance drops and occurrence of injuries. Recreational triathletes (n=942) answered a questionnaire inquiring about their demographic characteristics, performance, injuries and training volume. When comparing athletes who slept more (9-10 hours) with those who slept less, less sleep was associated with a higher prevalence of perceived performance drops. Regarding difficulties in initiating sleep, the absence of initiating difficulties (p<0.001) was a protective factor against perceived performance drops. Regarding weekly training volume, compared to those who trained more than 20 hours, training less than 3 hours (p<0.001), 3-5 hours (p<0.001), or 12-14 hours (p<0.001) were protective factors against perceived performance drops. Concerning training volume and injuries, we found that compared to those who trained more than 20 hours, training 18-20 hours (p<0.001), 15-17 hours (p<0.001), 12-14 hours (p<0.001), 6-8 hours (p<0.001), or 3-5 hours (p<0.001) were protective factors against injuries. Triathletes with a lower sleep quantity and those who have difficulties initiating sleep frequently experience drops in performance. Training volumes can influence both performance and the likelihood of injuries.

Variability of the Center of Mass in Trained Triathletes in Running After Cycling: A Preliminary Study Conducted in a Real-Life Setting.

While the sport of short-distance (Sprint) triathlon provides an opportunity to research the effect of the center of mass (CoM) when cycling and running, much remains to be done. The literature has failed to consistently or adequately report how changes to hand position influence subsequent running as inferred by the magnitude of CoM acceleration. The demands of cycle training in a drops and aerodynamic position followed by running remain unquantified in Sprint Distance triathlon. Thus, far data collected indicate that the cycle to run transition (T2) is important for overall race success. While many age-groupers participate in Sprint Distance triathlon, the lack of T2 based research make comparisons between cycle hand position and ensuing running difficult. The motion of the human body when cycling and running in triathlon can be described by the motion of its CoM in a local coordinate system. Unobtrusive wearable sensors have proven to be an informative resource to monitor the magnitude of CoM accelerations in running. However, the extent to which they are used in cycling is unclear. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to analyse the temporal magnitudes of CoM acceleration when cycling position and cadence is changed and to analyse these effects on running after cycling. Ten recreational triathletes completed two 20 km cycling trials at varied cadence in a drops position (parts of the handlebars that curve outward, CycleDrops) and an aerodynamic position (arms bent, forearms parallel to the ground, CycleAero) immediately followed by a 5 km run at self-selected pace. Torso kinematics by way of CoM acceleration magnitude were captured in a typical training setting using a triaxial accelerometer. CoM acceleration was quantified in m/s2 and variability was measured by the coefficient of variation (CV) and root mean square (RMS). Results from CycleAero indicated that acceleration of the CoM in longitudinal (CV = 1%) and mediolateral directions (CV = 3%) was significantly reduced (p < 0.001) compared to CycleDrops. As for rate of perceived exertion (RPE), a significant difference was observed with triathletes reporting higher values in CycleAero alongside a greater CoM acceleration magnitude in the anteroposterior direction. The CoM varied significantly from RunAero with less longitudinal (CV = 0.2, p < 0.001) and mediolateral acceleration observed (CV = 7.5%, p < 0.001) compared to RunDrops. Although greater longitudinal acceleration was observed in the initial 1 km epoch of RunAero, triathletes then seemingly adjusted their CoM trajectory to record lower magnitudes until completion of the 5 km run, completing the run quicker compared to RunDrops (22.56 min1 ± 0.2, 23.34 min1 ± 0.5, p < 0.001, CV = 1.3%). Coaches may look to use triaxial accelerometers to monitor performance in both cycling and running after cycling.

The Effect of Cleat Position on Running Using Acceleration-Derived Data in the Context of Triathlons.

Appropriate cycling cleat adjustment could improve triathlon performance in both cycling and running. Prior recommendations regarding cleat adjustment have comprised aligning the first metatarsal head above the pedal spindle or somewhat forward. However, contemporary research has questioned this approach in triathlons due to the need to run immediately after cycling. Subsequently, moving the pedal cleat posteriorly could be more appropriate. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a triaxial accelerometer to determine acceleration magnitudes of the trunk in outdoor cycling in two different bicycle cleat positions and the consequential impact on trunk acceleration during running. Seven recreational triathletes performed a 20 km cycle and a 5 km run using their own triathlon bicycle complete with aerodynamic bars and gearing. Interpretation of data was evaluated based on cadence changes whilst triathletes cycled in an aerodynamic position in two cleat positions immediately followed by a self-paced overground run. The evaluation of accelerometer-derived data within a characteristic overground setting suggests a significant increase in total trunk acceleration magnitude during cycling with a posterior cleat with significant increases to longitudinal acceleration (p = 0.04) despite a small effect (d = 0.2) to the ratings of perceived exertion (RPE). Cycling with a posterior cleat significantly reduced longitudinal trunk acceleration in running and overall acceleration magnitudes (p < 0.0001) with a large effect size (d = 0.9) and a significant reduction in RPE (p = 0.02). In addition, running after cycling in a posterior cleat was faster compared to running after cycling in a standard cleat location. Practically, the magnitude of trunk acceleration during cycling in a posterior cleat position as well as running after posterior cleat cycling differed from that when cycling in the fore-aft position followed by running. Therefore, the notion that running varies after cycling is not merely an individual athlete’s perception, but a valid observation that can be modified when cleat position is altered. Training specifically with a posterior cleat in cycling might improve running performance when trunk accelerations are analysed.

Hip Internal Range Of Motion Correlates With Back And Lower Extremity Pain In Recreational Triathletes

Hip Internal Range Of Motion Correlates With Back And Lower Extremity Pain In Recreational Triathletes

Hydrolyzed Collagen Supplementation on Lower Body Stiffness in Recreational Triathletes

Background: Myotendinous stiffness is related to the collagen content of the muscle and tendon, and can be estimated during running by changes in vertical stiffness (kvert) and the resulting modifications of the spatiotemporal parameters (on-off ground asymmetry and landing-takeoff asymmetry). Supplementation with amino acids found in collagen, such as proline, glycine, and hydroxyl proline, combined with ascorbic acid, improve collagen synthesis and potentially result in improved mechanical strength and stiffness. Objectives: To determine if hydrolyzed collagen (HC) supplementation increases kvert and improves the spatiotemporal parameters during running in recreational triathletes. Methods: Nine active males (weight; 68.4 ± 5.7 kg, height; 171.8 ± 5.4 cm, age; 32.5 ± 4.1 years; Vo2max; 53.15 ± 2.19 mL/kg/min) were randomly distributed into a collagen group (CollG, n = 5) and a control group (CG, n = 4). Participants were supplemented for 4 weeks with 15g HC (CollG) or 15g placebo (CG; maltodextrin), 3 times per week. One hour after supplementation, the participants of both groups were asked to perform four repetitions of short sprints to further stimulate collagen synthesis. The ground reaction forces were recorded during running at 4.44 m s-1, 5.55 m.s-1, and 6.66 m.s-1 for assessment of kvert and the spatiotemporal step parameters. Results: Both groups increased kvert with speed (4.44 - 6.66 m s-1) from 24.8 ± 2.7 to 53.7 ± 16.5 N/m and from 25.1 to 49.8 N/m in the CollG and CG, respectively (P &lt; 0.0001); however, there were no differences between groups before and after the supplementation period. As a consequence, the spatiotemporal parameters of running were also similar between groups. Conclusions: Four weeks of HC supplementation does not improve the bouncing mechanism of running in recreational triathletes.

Profiles for identifying problematic dietary habits in a sample of recreational Spanish cyclists and triathletes

There is a lack of sufficient information on the dietary intake and nutritional supplementation of recreational endurance athletes throughout the year. The present observational study sought to assess the dietary intake and nutritional supplementation habits of recreational cyclists and triathletes from Spain. 4,037 cyclists and triathletes completed self-report measures. Nutritional profiles were developed and differences were examined according to sporting discipline and gender. Differences between groups were compared using the Mann–Whitney U or chi-squared test. Next, micro- and macro-nutrients were grouped according to whether or not guideline intake amounts were met. The clustering of dietary habits was then examined via K-means cluster analysis. Triathletes took more supplements than cyclists (X2 = 36.489; p value = .000) and females took more supplements than males (X2 = 5.920; p value = .017). Females and triathletes reported greater protein and CHO consumption than males and cyclists, respectively. Triathletes also reported a higher consumption of total fat, MUFA, PUFA, EPA, DHA and fibre. Females and triathletes tended to consume more vitamins and minerals than males and cyclists, respectively. Two main dietary habit clusters emerged which may be used to inform nutritional interventions targeting recreational athletes not meeting nutritional requirements. There is an imbalance in the main nutrients making up the diet of recreational Spanish athletes, characterised by insufficient CHO and excessive protein.

The Training Characteristics of Recreational-Level Triathletes: Influence on Fatigue and Health.

Little is known about how recreational triathletes prepare for an Olympic distance event. The aim of this study was to identify the training characteristics of recreational-level triathletes within the competition period and assess how their preparation for a triathlon influences their health and their levels of fatigue. During the 6 weeks prior to, and the 2 weeks after, an Olympic distance triathlon, nine recreational athletes (five males, four females) completed a daily training log. Participants answered the Daily Analysis of Life Demands Questionnaire (DALDA), the Training Distress Scale (TDS) and the Alberta Swim Fatigue and Health Questionnaire weekly. The Recovery-Stress Questionnaire (REST-Q) was completed at the beginning of the study, on the day before the competition, and at the end of week 8. Training loads were calculated using session-based rating of perceived exertion (sRPE). The data from every week of training was compared to week 1 to determine how athletes’ training and health changed throughout the study. No changes in training loads, duration or training intensity distribution were seen in the weeks leading up to the competition. Training duration was significantly reduced in week 6 (p = 0.041, d = 1.58, 95% CI = 6.9, 421.9), while the number of sessions was reduced in week 6 (Z = 2.32, p = 0.02, ES = 0.88) and week 7 (Z = 2.31, p = 0.02, ES = 0.87). Training was characterized by large weekly variations in training loads and a high training intensity. No significant changes were seen in the DALDA, TDS or REST-Q questionnaire scores throughout the 8 weeks. Despite large spikes in training load and a high overall training intensity, these recreational-level triathletes were able to maintain their health in the 6 weeks of training prior to an Olympic distance triathlon.

CORRELATION BETWEEN DURATION SPENT IN FITNESS CENTER AND VO2 MAX LEVEL AMONG ADULTS

VO2 max or oxygen consumption maximum value is a gold standard indicator towards cardiovascular and aerobic endurance because it refers to the maximum amount of oxygen used by an individual in one minute during maximum physical activity. The study's purpose was to see the correlation between duration spent in the fitness center and VO2 max value among adults. This study used the analytical study method, cross-sectional type. We chose the participant from members of Gold’s Gym fitness center at Cihampelas, aged 18-45 years old, with 3 months minimum of activity, and exercise frequency around three times per week. Theparticipants who had cardiovascular and pulmonary disease, serious physical injury, had already exercised during the time of observation, or professionally trained athletes were excluded. We used the Queen College step test for the instrument. There were 47 participants in this study. Spearman’s correlation coefficient was calculated to measure the correlation between duration spent and VO2 max, and the result was 0.77(95% CI 0.64; 0.85), p&lt;0.001 which is categorized as a strong correlation. From this study, we found that with the increase of duration spent in the fitness center, the VO2 max level is also increasing, and vice versa. This result is supported by a study from the United States which finds a correlation between VO2max and performance times of recreational triathletes. In conclusion, there is a positive correlation between duration spent in the fitness center and VO2 max level among adults.

Training, Injury, and Lifestyle Characteristics of Recreational Triathletes.

Triathlon is a popular sport among recreational and competitive athletes. As triathletes compete in races ranging from 16 to 140.6 miles and train in three disciplines simultaneously, it is difficult to identify injury risk factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate characteristics of a group of recreational triathletes regarding their medical history, training regimen, and injuries. Thirty-four triathletes completed this survey. We found a wide range of body types, training habits, and lifestyle characteristics. As in previous studies, we found a high rate of injuries in our surveyed triathletes. Injury rates were higher in athletes who had completed a longer race and those who reported higher training times per week. Additionally, many individuals have medical problems, use a variety of supplements, and follow specific dietary restrictions, which need to be considered in addition to training when assessing injury risk and recovery from injury.

Does Cold-Water Endurance Swimming Affect Pulmonary Function in Healthy Adults?

The acute effects of cold-water endurance swimming on the respiratory system have received little attention. We investigated pulmonary responses to cold-water endurance swimming in healthy recreational triathletes. Pulmonary function, alveolar diffusing capacity (DLCO), fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) and arterial oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry (SpO2) were assessed in 19 healthy adults one hour before and 2.5 h after a cold-water (mean ± SD, 10 ± 0.9 °C) swim trial (62 ± 27 min). In addition, 12 out of the 19 participants measured pulmonary function, forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) 3, 10, 20 and 45 min post-swim by maximal expiratory flow volume loops and DLCO by the single breath technique. FVC and FEV1 were significantly reduced 3 min post-swim (p = 0.02) (p = 0.04), respectively, and five of 12 participants (42%) experienced exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), defined as a ≥ 10% drop in FEV1. No significant changes were observed in pulmonary function 2.5 h post-swim. However, mean FENO and DLCO were significantly reduced by 7.1% and 8.1% (p = 0.01) and (p < 0.001), respectively, 2.5 h post-swim, accompanied by a 2.5% drop (p < 0.001) in SpO2. The absolute change in DLCO correlated significantly with the absolute decline in core temperature (r = 0.52; p = 0.02). Conclusion: Cold-water endurance swimming may affect the lungs in healthy recreational triathletes lasting up to 2.5 h post-swim. Some individuals appear to be more susceptible to pulmonary impairments than others, although these mechanisms need to be studied further.

Refined Analysis of a Cross-Sectional Doping Survey Among Recreational Triathletes: Support for the Nutritional Supplement Gateway Hypothesis.

Introduction: The current literature provides no consensus that nutritional supplements (NS) may provide a gateway to doping. In particular, studies in recreational athletes are lacking. Within a previous cross-sectional empirical study, our group provided first evidence that the use of NS may provide a gateway for the use of doping substances in recreational triathletes. For the present paper, we refine the analysis of the triathletes’ survey in order to provide evidence for a NS gateway hypothesis in recreational athletes.Methods: A self-report, paper-and-pencil questionnaire was distributed to a sample of 2,997 competitive ironman and half-ironman (n = 1,076; 36.1%) triathletes. The randomized response technique (RRT) was used to assess the 12-month prevalence estimate for the use of doping substances. The prevalence for the use of NS was assessed by using direct questioning. Two-tailed (α = 0.05) large-sample z-tests were performed to assess whether the estimated prevalence for the use of doping substances differs significantly between users and nonusers of NS.Results: The 12-month prevalence estimate for the use of doping substances is significantly higher in athletes who report using NS (20.6%) compared to those who do not (11.4%; z = 2.595, p = 0.0097).Conclusion: The present results are consistent with the hypothesis that the use of NS provides a gateway to the use of doping substances. Therefore, doping prevention concepts should not primarily focus on preventing the use of doping substances per se, but should start one step earlier, namely by the use of NS.

Diferencias en las respuestas fisiológicas entre triatletas masculinos y femeninos

Los objetivos de este estudio fueron analizar las diferencias entre triatletas masculinos y femeninos amateurs en el rendimiento en un test incremental máximo y en una competición simulada y describir si existe asociación entre el rendimiento en el test máximo incremental y la prueba simulada de competición. Un total de catorce triatletas recreacionales, 8 mujeres (35,0  8,1 años; 166,8  7,2 cm; 69,4  14,6 kg; 24,7  3,2 kg.m-2) y 6 hombres (47,7  14,3 años; 179,9  8,6 cm; 77,8  5,8 kg; 24,0  1,3 kg.m-2) realizaron un test incremental máximo y en una competición simulada (20 km bici y 5 km carrera a pie). A pesar de que no se observaron diferencias significativas entre el grupo masculino y femenino en el test máximo incremental, a efectos prácticos, el grupo masculino obtuvo valores mayores para VO2max, Pmax, PVT1, PVT2 y VO2VT2 (p &gt; 0,05, ES = -0,8 a -1.9, alto). Con respecto a la competición simulada, si bien no se obtuvieron diferencias en función de sexo en los 5 km de carrera, el grupo femenino obtuvo valores significativamente inferiores para las variables velocidad (media y máxima) (p &lt; 0,05 y p &lt; 0,01, ES = -1,3- -4,1, alto) y potencia (media y máxima) (p &lt; 0,01, ES = -2.4- -2.8, alto) durante los 20 km de ciclismo, así como un tiempo de ejecución del sector ciclista significativamente mayor que el grupo masculino (p &lt; 0,01, ES = 1,6, alto). Por otro lado, un mejor rendimiento durante el test máximo incremental se asoció a un mejor rendimiento durante los 20 km de ciclismo en el grupo masculino (r = 0,848, p &lt; 0,05), mientras que en el grupo femenino se asoció tanto a los 20 km en bici como a los 5 km corriendo (r = -0,714 a -0,822, p &lt; 0,05). Los resultados obtenidos en el estudio ponen de manifiesto que los triatletas masculinos tienen un mejor rendimiento en un test incremental máximo y en el sector bici en una competición simulada y que la asociación entre el rendimiento en un test incremental y el rendimiento en los sectores de la prueba simulada depende del sexo.

The Age-Related Performance Decline in Ironman 70.3.

Although the age-related decline in sport events has been well studied, little is known on such a decline in recreational triathletes for the Half Ironman distance. Indeed, the few existing studies concentrated on specific aspects such as top events, elite groups, some consecutive years, single locations, or age categories instead of analyzing all the data available. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine recreational triathletes’ performance in three split disciplines (swimming, cycling, and running) as well as in overall race time by analyzing all data of Half Ironman finishers found on ironman.com (i.e., 690 races; years 2004 through 2018; 206,524 women (24.6%) and 633,576 men (75.4%), in total 840,100 athletes). The age-dependent decline in Half Ironman started earliest in swimming (from the very first age group on) with a smallest age group delta between 35–49 years in men and 40–54 years in women. The performance decline started at 26 and 28 years in men and women for running; at 34 years for men and 35 years for women in cycling; and at 32 years for men and 31 years for women with regard to overall race time. The results may be used by coaches and recreational athletes alike to plan a triathlon career.

The Prevalence of Legal Performance-Enhancing Substance Use and Potential Cognitive and or Physical Doping in German Recreational Triathletes, Assessed via the Randomised Response Technique.

This study investigated the use of performance-enhancing substances in recreational triathletes who were competing in German races at distances ranging from super-sprint to long-distance, as per the International Triathlon Union. The use of legal drugs and over-the-counter supplements over the previous year, painkillers over the previous 3 months, and the potential three-month prevalence of physical doping and or cognitive doping in this group were assessed via an anonymous questionnaire. The Randomised Response Technique (RRT) was implemented for sensitive questions regarding “prescription drugs […] for the purpose of performance enhancement […] only available at a pharmacy or on the black market”. The survey did not directly state the word “doping,” but included examples of substances that could later be classed as physical and or cognitive doping. The subjects were not required to detail what they were taking. Overall, 1953 completed questionnaires were received from 3134 registered starters at six regional events—themselves involving 17 separate races—in 2017. Of the respondents, 31.8% and 11.3% admitted to the use of dietary supplements, and of painkillers during the previous three months, respectively. Potential physical doping and cognitive doping over the preceding year were reported by 7.0% (Confidence Interval CI: 4.2–9.8) and 9.4% (CI: 6.6–12.3) of triathletes. Gender, age, experience in endurance sports, and number of weekly triathlon training hours were linked to potential physical or cognitive doping. Given the potentially relevant side effects of painkiller use and physical and or cognitive doping, we recommend that educational and preventative measures for them be implemented within amateur triathlons.

A preliminary investigation about the observation of regional skin temperatures following cumulative training loads in triathletes during training camp.

There are controversial results in the literature concerning the concept that cumulative training load could affect basal skin temperature in the days following training sessions. The objective was to measure skin temperature in triathletes during a training camp with cumulative training load. Ten male recreational triathletes involved in a training camp underwent measurements of perception of pain and fatigue (visual analogue scale), skin temperature (infrared thermography), and jump performance (counter movement jump test) before, one day, and two days after the beginning of the training camp. All measurements were performed before the breakfast. Jump height did not differ between the days (p > 0.05). Fatigue perception increased after the first and second day of training for most of the body regions (p < 0.05). Pain perception increased after two days of training (p < 0.05). Mean and maximum skin temperature increased after the second day of training for most of the body regions (p < 0.05). Skin temperature in some body regions was directly related with muscle mass, weekly training volume, and inverse related with fatigue perception (p < 0.05 and R2 > 0.4). Possible explanations of these results in comparison with previous studies may include the influence of control of the intrinsic and extrinsic factors related to the skin temperature assessment (for instance, the time of the day, lack of muscle soreness, daily activity control). These preliminary results have important implication on the use of skin basal temperature data to monitor exercise recovery, which claims for further research.

Comparación entre diferentes tests para la determinación del umbral de potencia funcional en carrera

Introduction:Power is an important variable to evaluate performance. With the increasing of devices for the power measurement, it is simple to associate certain watts to the running Functional Threshold Power measured in watts (rFTPw) as indicates Vance (2016). Affirming that the estimation of the power through accelerometry, can revolutionize the training of running.The main goal of this study was to find the most appropriate test for the determination of rFTPw. Material and methods:9 recreational triathletes participated in the study (22.9 + 4.8 years). All the tests were carried out with a minimum of 24 hours of rest between each test carried out in an athletics track measuring the running power data with Stryd Summit footpod (Stryd, Boulder, CO, USA). Results:The T 3 min -9 min was the one that presented a lower average error with respect to the rFTPw M for power and pace. Conclusions:T 3 min – 9 min could be the best alternative without taking into account the distance or duration of competition. Because that rFTPw changes depending of the duration of each test. It would not be valid to use the watts associated to Critical Speed (CS) obtained in the test T 3 MT. Being that it supposes a greater average error regarding the rFTPw M in power and pace. The T 30 min could be an alternative when calculating the rFTPw with the data obtained in a training or competition of the same duration. The tests with the lowest average error in the external variable power are the ones with the lowest error in pace. Although the pace would remain the main variable to control the external load in running.

Changes in Triathletes' Performance and Body Composition During a Specific Training Period for a Half-Ironman Race.

The number of recreational athletes completing a Half-Ironman triathlon has increased exponentially in recent years. However, there is a lack of research on how to train for this kind of an event. The purpose of this study was thus to analyse triathletes’ changes in performance and body composition following a triathlon-specific training period. Fourteen male amateur triathletes completed a 7-week period of general training and a 13-week period of specific training for a Half-Ironman triathlon. Anthropometric measures and performance tests were carried out to assess the effects of the specific training program. Results showed that the pre-test value of VO2max for cycling was inversely correlated not only with the percentage of change in cycling performance, but also with the percentage change in several variables of running performance. In swimming, inverse correlations were observed between the time of the first 800 m test and the time percentage change for this test, but not with the percentage change in the performance of other segments of the race. Moreover, the somatotype component of endomorphy and the fat mass percentage of the first anthropometry were highly correlated with the percentage change in VO2max in the run segment. These results highlight the importance of providing individualised training, considering that the same training program had a different impact on recreational triathletes belonging to the same group. Amateur athletes with higher initial performance levels probably need a greater amount of training to achieve improved adaptation.

Ready To Tri: Characteristics Of Recreational Triathletes

PURPOSE: The sport of triathlon has been increasing in popularity, especially among recreational athletes. As triathletes compete in races ranging from around 16 miles to 140.6 miles or more and train in 3 disciplines simultaneously, it is difficult to identify consistent risk factors for injury among these athletes. The aim of this study was to evaluate characteristics of a group of recreational triathletes in regards to their medical history, training habits, and musculoskeletal injuries. METHODS: Endurance athletes were recruited for participation from local triathlon clubs and upon presentation to the University of Miami Sports Medicine clinic. Triathletes over the age of 18 years were considered for participation. After consenting, they were sent a link via e-mail to complete an online survey. RESULTS: Twenty-two triathletes completed the survey. The average age was 46.5 years old (range 24-60 years). Seventy-three percent reported an injury in the past year, and 32% reported multiple injuries. The lower extremity represented 66% of injuries. The knee accounted for 27%, followed closely by the hip at 23%. The back and shoulder accounted for 15% each. Other reported locations of injuries were the foot, ankle, leg, and neck. Athletes spent the most training time per week biking at 4.9 hours, followed by running at 3.9 hours, and then swimming at 2.3 hours. Almost 60% reported weight training for an average of 2 hours per week. Of these, 77% reported at least 1 injury, but only 23% had multiple injuries. Only 14% participated in some type of yoga or Pilates. The majority of athletes, 59%, trained with the help of a coach. Only 18% reported working with a nutritionist, and less than 5% reported working with a sports psychologist. Thirty-six percent reported having a current, chronic medical condition. The most common conditions were asthma and anxiety. Sixty-four percent used some type of vitamin or supplement, with multivitamins being the most common (35%). A gluten free diet was followed by 21%, and 16% reported following a vegetarian or vegan diet. CONCLUSION: Establishing a better understanding of the characteristics of recreational triathletes along with trends in their training habits can help guide further research on injury risks and lead to training recommendations for injury prevention.