Running Pace Research Articles

Differences in 5-km running pace between female and male triathletes.

During an IRONMAN, the pacing strategy in the running segment differs significantly between sexes. However, it is unknown if sex affects the running pace in shorter triathlon events. This study compared the pacing strategy between sexes during a 5-km running test performed following a 20-km cycle (sprint triathlon distances). Participants included 16 men (34.7±7.5 years) and 16 women (39.5±7.7 years). A cardiopulmonary exercise test to measure maximal oxygen uptake (˙VO2max) and a functional threshold power (FTP) were performed. Body composition was measured using a dual-emission X-ray absorptiometry system. Participants cycled at 90% FTP for 20 km and ran as fast as possible for 5 km. The total time spent cycling 20 km was shorter (~11%) in male than in female athletes (p<0.001). Similarly, the time spent to run 5 km was shorter in male (~11%) than in female athletes (p=0.006). Male athletes performed the last 600 m of the 5km race significantly faster than the initial meters (p<0.05). Female athletes performed the 5-km race without pace variation (p>0.05). In conclusion, apart from the sex differences associated with performance in short-term triathlon events, the pacing strategy was also different.

Investigating spatial and temporal characteristics and elements influencing running among residents of Nanchang city in green open areas

Understanding the exercise behaviors of urban residents in green open spaces is crucial for optimizing future urban spatial planning and improving residents’ quality of life. This study provides an in-depth analysis of residents’ running behaviors across 87 green open spaces in Nanchang City. Running data collected from the exercise platform Keep, coupled with urban geographic data and field research, reveals the spatial distribution and temporal variations of running activities, including running flow, distance, time, and pace. A set of indicator systems, such as total area, landscape form index, surrounding residential land area, and road conditions, is used to analyze its relationship with the environmental elements of green open spaces. The research results show that the running flow, running distance, and running time in green open spaces in Nanchang City are significantly influenced by different objective elements, while running pace shows little correlation with these environmental elements. Specifically, the study highlights the significant impact of elements such as total area and road length, as well as the number of nearby bus stops and population density, on residents’ running behaviors in Nanchang City’s green open spaces.

Pulse Rate of Jogging Two Kilometers of Constant Pace Running

The study aims to obtain data on the average pulse rate before and after running 5 laps to determine the level of dehydration of a person. The pulse is a form of the heart's ability, which is located in a certain area. The pulse rate can be used as a reference to determine heart rate, rhythm, and heart strength. The method used is to calculate the normal pulse rate, then the sample runs 5 laps of the soccer field, after the test the sample returns to calculate the pulse rate by holding the artery area and counting it for 1 minute while standing and calm. From the research conducted on a sample of 16 active PKO students, there are women and men, from the average data obtained, the results of the pulse rate is higher after running 5 laps, namely 168 times per minute, compared to before running 5 laps, with an average of 102 times per minute.

Garmin Fénix 7® underestimates performance at the lactate threshold in comparison to standardized blood lactate field test

Introduction &amp; Purpose Lactate threshold (LT) is a critical performance measure traditionally obtained using costly laboratory-based tests. Wearables offer a practical and noninvasive alternative for LT assessment in recreational and professional athletes. However, the comparability of these estimates with the gold standards requires further evaluation. This study therefore aimed to compare pace and heart rate (HR) at the LT between the Garmin Fenix 7® threshold running test and a standardized blood lactate field test. Methods In our sample of 26 participants (nf = 7 and nm = 19; 25.97 (± 6.26) years, BMI: 24.58 (± 2.8) kg/m2) we determined running pace and HR at LT with two subsequent tests. First, all participants were equipped with a Fenix 7® smartwatch for a calibration phase of 5 weeks. Subsequently, all performed the Fenix 7® threshold running test, which guides the athlete through incrementing HR zones. Based on that, the watch estimated pace and HR at LT. After a break of at least 48 h, they were tested in a standardized, graded blood lactate field test analyzed by the modified D-Max method (Cheng et al, 1992). Results Pace at LT calculated by Fenix 7® (M =11.87 km/h ± 1.26 km/h) was 11,8% lower compared to the field test (M =13.28 km/h ± 1.72 km/h), which was significant (p &lt; .001, d = -1.19). HR estimated by the watch at LT was 1,72% lower (p &gt; .05). LT data obtained in the field test showed greater overall variance. Conclusion Our results suggest sufficient accuracy of Fenix 7® LT estimates for recreational athletes. It can be assumed that for professional athletes, it would fail to provide the nuanced data needed for high-quality training management.

Changes in hematopoietic stem cell numbers following acute exercise in non-athlete marathon runners

PurposeHematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplant is one of the curative methods for some patients with hematological malignancies. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is the most common drug used to mobilize CD34+ cells, generally found in small numbers. Recent evidence showed that exercise causes transient mobilization in HSC. However, the type and intensity of exercise have not been fully revealed. We aimed to detect a significant increase in stem cell levels following 60 ​min of running at a personalized running pace. Materials/methodsEighteen runners, 48.2 ​± ​1.9 years with peak oxygen consumption of 46.2 ​± ​1.4 ​ml/kg/min, were enrolled in the study. The cardiopulmonary exercise test was performed to determine the individual running pace, and the participants ran 60-min on a treadmill at an intensity close to their ventilatory threshold (VT). The blood sampling for HSC count was performed before, immediately after, at the 1st, 4th and 24th hour after the 60-min running. ResultsThe CD34+ HSCs were 13.9 ​± ​2.3 ​cells/μl before and significantly increased immediately after to 19.5 ​± ​3.6 ​cells/μl (p ​< ​0.05). The consecutive HSC counts were 15.3 ​± ​2.2, 19.5 ​± ​4.8 and 15.1 ​± ​3.4 ​cells/μl at the 1st, 4th, and 24th hour, respectively. ConclusionThe individual data showed that some runners had higher HSC levels than the transplantation limit before and after the 60-min running trail, which was maintained for 24 ​h. Pre-running high CD34+ HSCs may reflect an adaptive response to regular exercise, with a 60-min run near the VT further elevating HSCs. Individualized exercise may be a valuable tool to mobilize the CD34+ HSCs in peripheral blood for donors.

Garmin Fénix 7® Underestimates Performance at the Lactate Threshold in Comparison to Standardized Blood Lactate Field Test.

Lactate threshold (LT) is a critical performance measure traditionally obtained using costly laboratory-based tests. Wearables offer a practical and noninvasive alternative for LT assessment in recreational and professional athletes. However, the comparability of these estimates with the regular field tests requires further evaluation. In our sample of 26 participants (nf=7 and nm=19), we compared the estimated running pace and heart rate (HR) at LT with two subsequent tests. First, participants performed the Fenix 7® threshold running test after a calibration phase. Subsequently, they were tested in a standardized, graded blood lactate field test. Age was 25.97 (± 6.26) years, and body mass index (BMI) was 24.58 (± 2.8) kg/m2. Pace at LT calculated by Fenix 7® (M=11.87 km/h±1.26 km/h) was 11.96% lower compared to the field test (M=13.28 km/h±1.72 km/h), which was significant (p <0.001, d=-1.19). HR estimated by the Fenix 7® at LT was 1.71% lower (p>0.05). LT data obtained in the field test showed greater overall variance. Our results suggest sufficient accuracy of Fenix 7® LT estimates for recreational athletes. It can be assumed that for professional athletes, it would fail to provide the nuanced data needed for high-quality training management.

THE EFFECT OF WATER DOUSING ON HEAT STRAIN AND PERFORMANCE DURING ENDURANCE RUNNING IN THE HEAT

INTRODUCTION Water dousing (pouring water on the body) is an easy-to-implement cooling method while running due to the availability of water at race aid stations, and may decrease the risk of heat illness and improve performance. However, dousing has not been investigated in extended duration running (i.e., ≥10 km), a typical distance in both elite and community level events. AIMS: Assess the effect of water dousing on heat strain and performance during self-paced and fixed-intensity exercise in the heat. DESIGN: Crossover, block randomised controlled trial. METHODS 13 trained runners completed a 10 km time trial (TT) and 60 min fixed pace run (60% velocity of VO2max) in a 30°C, 47% relative humidity environment using either water dousing (DOUSE) or no dousing (CON). RESULTS 10 km TT performance was faster in DOUSE compared to CON (44:11±6:14 vs. 44:38±6:03 min:s; p=0.033). Change in core temperature (Tc) was not different between groups during the TT (+0.02±0.33°C in DOUSE; p=0.853) or fixed pace run (+0.02±0.30°C; p=0.848). Change in mean skin temperature (Tsk) was lower in DOUSE during the TT (-1.80±0.63°C; p&amp;lt;0.001) and fixed pace run (-1.38±0.78°C; p&amp;lt;0.001). Heart rate (HR) was lower for DOUSE during the fixed pace run (-3.5±5.5 bpm; p=0.041) but not during the TT (-0.2±4.2 bpm; p=0.853). Thermal sensation was lower for DOUSE during the TT (-49.3±41.9 mm; p&amp;lt;0.001) and fixed pace run (-44.7±27.6 mm; p&amp;lt;0.001). Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was not different between groups for the TT (-0.2±0.9; p=0.390) or fixed pace run (-0.2±1.0; p=0.480). CONCLUSION Water dousing improves 10 km TT performance in the heat but does not mitigate a rise in Tc. The positive change in thermal perception (via lower skin temperature) likely drives this ergogenic effect.

Dose-response relationship between 15 weeks of running and aerobic fitness: a retrospective analysis based on the fun running program

BackgroundStudents’ physical fitness, particularly aerobic fitness, has seriously declined during the COVID-19 epidemic. However, in the post-epidemic era, there are few studies on the methods of improving aerobic fitness. Understanding the dose-response relationship between physical activity and aerobic fitness is crucial for developing effective exercise prescriptions.MethodThis retrospective study reviewed the Fun Running program at Wannan Medical College in China. We conducted a pre-post study design to analyze the impact of 15 weeks of Fun Running training on aerobic fitness. Middle and long-distance running pace (MLDR-P) was used as the primary indicator of aerobic fitness. A paired sample T-test was used to analyze the differences between the two MLDR-Ps. Pearson’s correlation was used to examine the correlation between variables. Multiple linear regression was used to determine the extent to which Fun Running components explain the variance in MLDR-P.ResultsA total of 3244 college students participated in this study. 15 weeks of Fun Running training can significantly improve the MLDR-P in both females (P < 0.001, ES = 0.68) and males (P < 0.001, ES = 0.72). The MLDR-P was significantly correlated with Fun Running (R2 = 0.95, p < 0.05, for females; R2 = 0.96, p < 0.05, for males). The component that had the greatest impact on MLDR-P was pace (β = 1.39, for females; β = 1.09, for males), followed by distance (β = 0.49, for females; β = 0.15, for males), and last frequency (β = -0.03, for all).ConclusionThis study fills the gap in research on the dose-response relationship between running and aerobic fitness among college students in the post-epidemic era. The results show that 15 weeks of Fun Running training can significantly improve aerobic fitness. Examination of the dose-response relationship between Fun Running and MLDR-P provides practitioners with valuable insights into prescribing aerobic fitness training, allowing them to develop more effective training programs. Future research should focus on how to implement a hierarchical Fun Running program effectively.

Participation trends, dynamics of results and forecasting of finishing times of athletes specializing in 100 km ultra-marathon

In recent years, there has been an increase in popularity and results in road ultramarathon (running events which includes distances over 42 195 m). Attention to them from athletes, coaches and scientists is increasing. The search for scientifically based approaches to the construction of the training process is relevant. The study of statistical data on the performance of leading athletes at competitions is a source of important information for making recommendations for improving the training process. The purpose of the study was to determine the age and competitive characteristics of qualified ultramarathoners at a distance of 100 km and to develop methodological recommendations for building a training process and predicting the competitive result. The article analyzes statistical data on the performances of qualified ultramarathoners at the 100 km World Championships in 2022 and 2018, and related competition. The obtained results indicate a tendency to improve the finishing time of athletes of various qualifications. Age has a weak correlation with outcome. Qualified ultramarathoners compete in 2 or 3 main competitions during the year, with a period of 12-16 weeks between them. 100 km runners tend to slow down over the distance. More skilled athletes show less reduction in speed. The 100 km performance has a strong correlation with the 50 km performance. You can predict the competitive result at a distance of 100 km using the formula y=788.96 + 2.16x, where y is the result of running 100 km, x is the result of running 50 km in seconds. It is advisable to plan the training process of ultramarathoners based on a two- cycle or three-cycle periodization model. The derived regression equation makes it possible to adjust the training process and plan a rational running pace during the competition. Further research is needed to determine the optimal model of load distribution in the process of training ultramarathon runners.

Comparing Self-Reported Running Distance and Pace With a Commercial Fitness Watch Data: Reliability Study.

There is substantial evidence exploring the reliability of running distance self-reporting and GPS wearable technology, but there are currently no studies investigating the reliability of participant self-reporting in comparison to GPS wearable technology. There is also a critical sports science and medical research gap due to a paucity of reliability studies assessing self-reported running pace. The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability of weekly self-reported running distance and pace compared to a commercial GPS fitness watch, stratified by sex and age. These data will give clinicians and sports researchers insights into the reliability of runners' self-reported pace, which may improve training designs and rehabilitation prescriptions. A prospective study of recreational runners was performed. Weekly running distance and average running pace were captured through self-report and a fitness watch. Baseline characteristics collected included age and sex. Intraclass correlational coefficients were calculated for weekly running distance and running pace for self-report and watch data. Bland-Altman plots assessed any systemic measurement error. Analyses were then stratified by sex and age. Younger runners reported improved weekly distance reliability (median 0.93, IQR 0.92-0.94). All ages demonstrated similar running pace reliability. Results exhibited no discernable systematic bias. Weekly self-report demonstrated good reliability for running distance and moderate reliability for running pace in comparison to the watch data. Similar reliability was observed for male and female participants. Younger runners demonstrated improved running distance reliability, but all age groups exhibited similar pace reliability. Running pace potentially should be monitored through technological means to increase precision.

Reliability and validity of sprint performance using the Alex7 motorizeddevice.

Advancements in technology have recently made it possible to implement effective training solutions across different environmental conditions. This study evaluated the reliability and validity of measures obtained from the innovative motorized device, Alex7 (Inosportas, Lithuania), and differences in speed and kinematic characteristics between resisted and assisted sprinting in young football players. Twenty-seven male athletes (mean age: 16.5 ± 0.8 years; height: 179.5 ± 6.9 cm; body weight: 67.7 ± 8.3 kg) each performed 30-m sprints twice under three different conditions: regular, resisted, and assisted sprinting. The Alex7 device provided the assistance and resistance during sprints. Results were compared with those from Witty timing gates. Ground contact time, flight time, stride length, and pace were measured using the OptoJump system. Reliability was assessed using two-way mixed intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for single measures, the standard error of the mean (SEM), and the coefficient of variation (CV). Pearson's correlation coefficient determined the associations between Alex7 and Witty timing systems. Criterion-referenced validity was based on the mean difference and CV. Systematic bias was determined by limits of agreement using Bland-Altman analysis. Running times obtained using the Alex7 equipment exhibited good to excellent test-retest reliability between sessions (ICC, 0.83-0.94) and good to excellent correlation (Pearson's r = 0.88-0.98) between the Alex7 and Witty systems in both assisted and resisted running conditions. However, the Alex7 device consistently produced longer running times than the Witty device (up to 0.16 s difference, p < 0.001). The different running conditions produced substantial variations in kinematic variables, such as stride length, ground contact time, and running speed (p < 0.001 for all), but the effects on flight time and running pace were smaller. The Alex7 device shows high reliability for creating resisted and assisted running conditions for young football players. However, it tends to overestimate running time, necessitating caution when assessing the time parameters.

Impact of Short Sprints and Alternate Pace Running on Selected Speed and Agility among Varsity Men Students

Impact of Short Sprints and Alternate Pace Running on Selected Speed and Agility among Varsity Men Students

Gender differences on the age-related distal-to-proximal shift in joint kinetics during running.

The increased running participation in women and men over 40 years has contributed to scientific interest on the age-related and gender differences in running performance and biomechanics over the last decade. Gender differences in running biomechanics have been studied extensively in young runners, with inconsistent results. Understanding how gender influences the age-related differences in running mechanics could help develop population-specific training interventions or footwear to address any potential different mechanical demands. The purpose of this study was to assess gender and age effects on lower limb joint mechanics while running. Middle-aged men (57 ± 5 years) and women (57 ± 8 years) and young men (28 ± 6 years) and women (30 ± 6 years) completed five overground running trials at a set speed of 2.7 m/s while lower limb kinematics and ground reaction forces were collected. Lower limb joint kinetics were computed, normalized to body mass and compared between age and gender groups using two-factor analyses of variance. Women reported slower average running paces than men and middle-aged runners reported slower running paces than young runners. We confirmed that young runners run with more ankle, but less hip positive work and peak positive power compared to middle-aged runners (i.e., age-related distal-to-proximal shift in joint kinetics). We also present a novel finding that women run with more ankle, but less hip peak positive power compared to men suggesting an ankle dominant strategy in women at a preferred and comfortable running pace. However, the age-related distal-to-proximal shift in joint kinetics was not different between genders.

Effect of three different running gait cues on vertical tibial acceleration

BackgroundRepetitive impacts during running are associated with some running injuries. Tibial acceleration is a proxy for tibial loading, and interventions that can decrease it are likely to be of interest to the running community. Research questionWhat effect do running gait cues have on peak vertical tibial acceleration at a comfortable and moderate running pace, and how will these cues be executed? MethodsTwenty-seven participants ran on a treadmill according to the following cues in random order: run softly and lightly, run with shorter steps, and increase preferred step rate by 7.5 %. Participants maintained each condition for one minute before returning to their ‘preferred’ running pattern for two minutes. Two tibia-mounted inertial measurement unit sensors were used to collect tibial acceleration data at a ‘comfortable’ and ‘moderate’ run pace. A repeated measures analysis of variance test was used to compare the means between running conditions. ResultsCompared to preferred running, the decrease step length (−8 %, p = 0.002, Cohen’s d=0.33) and run softly and lightly (−9 %, p = 0.040, Cohen’s d=0.38) cues provided a significant reduction in peak vertical tibial acceleration during a comfortable run pace. No significant difference was observed with an increase in step rate. Compared to preferred running, there was no significant difference in peak vertical tibial acceleration with any of the running gait cues during a moderate run pace. SignificanceInstructing runners to decrease step length or run softly and lightly can result in small reductions in peak vertical tibial acceleration during a comfortable run pace, but running gait cues during a moderate run pace provide no effects. Differences in the execution of each cue are likely to influence overall tibial loading throughout the stride cycle. These findings provide novel biomechanical evidence for the potential effects of running retraining strategies for reducing tibial accelerations at different running paces.

Does Running Increase the Risk of Hip and Knee Arthritis? A Survey of 3804 Marathon Runners.

Long-distance running is a popular form of cardiovascular exercise with many well-described health benefits, from improving heart health to the management of obesity, diabetes, and mental illness. The impact of long-distance running on joint health in recreational runners, however, remains inconclusive. The prevalence of osteoarthritis in runners is not associated with an athlete's running-related history, including the number of marathons completed, cumulative years of running, average weekly mileage, and average running pace. Prospective cohort study. Level 3. A survey was distributed to all participants registered for the 2019 or 2021 Chicago marathon (n = 37,917). Surveys collected runner demographics and assessed for hip/knee pain, osteoarthritis, family history, surgical history, and running-related history. Running history included the number of marathons run, number of years running, average running pace, and average weekly mileage. The overall prevalence of osteoarthritis was identified, and a multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify variables associated with the presence of hip and/or knee osteoarthritis. Surveys were completed by 3804 participants (response rate of 10.0%). The mean age was 43.9 years (range, 18-83 years) and participants had completed on average 9.5 marathons (median, 5 marathons; range, 1-664 marathons). The prevalence of hip and/or knee arthritis was 7.3%. A history of hip/knee injuries or surgery, advancing age, family history, and body mass index (BMI) were risk factors for arthritis. Cumulative number of years running, number of marathons completed, weekly mileage, and mean running pace were not significant predictors for arthritis. The majority (94.2%) of runners planned to run another marathon, despite 24.2% of all participants being told by a physician to do otherwise. From this largest surveyed group of marathon runners, the most significant risk factors for developing hip or knee arthritis were age, BMI, previous injury or surgery, and family history. There was no identified association between cumulative running history and the risk for arthritis.

The modelling of urban running races

In this paper, we model mass running urban races, taking into consideration several conditioning factors. The main goal is to find ideal configurations of the start of the race, splitting it into several waves, reducing the density of athletes and the overall time lost, when comparing the normal race results with a race without density constraints. This model takes into account distinct realistic runners’ profiles, changes in slope and width on the race course and its influence on the running pace. Moreover, density levels, dynamics of the start of the race and time between the departure of waves are also considered.

Effects of whole-body vibration warm-up on subsequent jumping and running performance

The aim of this study was to examine whether acute whole-body vibration, a single bout of drop jumps, or a combination of both may enhance countermovement jump (CMJ) and would affect volitional pace 3 km running performance. Twelve healthy and recreationally active males completed 4 conditions in randomized order: (i) 5 sets of 30 s calf raises on the platform but without vibration; (ii) 5 sets of 30 s calf raises on the vibration platform with 30 s rest intervals between sets; (iii) 5 sets of 6 drop jump with a 30 s rest interval between sets; (iv) 5 sets of 30 s calf raises on the vibration platform followed by 6 drop jumps with a 30 s rest interval between sets. Before, 3-min after, and immediately after a 3 km run each participant performed CMJ. No significant difference between conditions (p = 0.327) for the 3 km time trial was found. Whereas CMJ height and relative peak power were significantly improved in post-3 km run than at baseline (p < 0.001 and p = 0.025) and post-warm-up (p = 0.001 and p = 0.002) in all conditions. The present study indicates that warm-up consisting of either whole-body vibration, drop jumps, or a combination of both failed to acutely improve CMJ and 3 km volitional pace running performance in physically active males. However, the increase in the CMJ performance was noted after the end of the 3 km run, which may indicate that the warm-up protocols used were insufficient to enhance subsequent performance.

Absent Right Coronary Artery in an Active Young Female

Absent Right Coronary Artery in an Active Young Female

Data analysis and qualitative assessment of 5000 meter male middle distance runners

Sports and games has a great importance in education and also in maintaining health and fitness. To develop endurance, one may include middle distance run in their daily fitness activities. The 5000-meters middle distance running events are contested at all global athletics championships including India. The purpose of the paper is to analyze the pacing strategies of foreign elite male athlete and Indian male athlete in 5000-meter middle distance race. The study is to exhibit whether split 100 meter times of 5000-meter are varied in between foreign elite male athlete and Indian male athlete. Ten male leading foreign athletes are selected as foreign athletes from readily publically available data of the International Association of Athletic Federation (IAAF) World Athletics Championship 2017, World Athletics Championship 2019 and ten male Indian athletes are selected as Indian athletes from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) All India Inter University Athletics Championship 2020. The research brings forth how the variations occurs among the Indian athletes of Male population and foreign athlete of Male population. The constant variation in their running pace, velocity of the foreign athletes is exhibited in accordance with their distance parameter including the distance coverages world championship from 100 meter to 5000 meter.

The Relative Importance of Training and Social Support for Runners’ Performance: A Cross-Sectional Study

BackgroundRunning participation/performance is a complex system. Understanding the variables associated with these behaviors may help to increase population physical activity and improve performance. This study aimed to investigate social and training variables important for running performance using a network approach.MethodsThis cross-sectional study sampled 1151 non-professional Brazilian runners of both sexes (women, 38.2%; men, 61.7%). A questionnaire was available for eligible participants using an online platform, and information regarding training (volume and running pace) and social variables (participation in a running event, participation in a running group, influence on running, runners in the family, and childhood sport) related to runners’ performance was obtained. The Chi-square test and network model were estimated by sex.ResultsTraining characteristics tend to be clustered. For both sexes, the training volume node presented the highest expected influence in the network (1.69 for women and 2.16 for men). Centrality indicators of social variables show that sports childhood participation and the presence of runners in the family were the most important nodes of network connection for women and men, respectively.ConclusionBased on these findings, it was concluded that sports participation during childhood and the practice of running by other family members were important factors to connect variables in the network. These findings have practical applications for health policymakers, highlighting the need to develop educational programs to increase sports participation during childhood and within families.