The PPARGC1A Gly482Ser polymorphism is associated with elite long-distance running performance.

Success in long-distance running relies on multiple factors including oxygen utilisation and lactate metabolism, and genetic associations with athlete status suggest elite competitors are heritably predisposed to superior performance. The Gly allele of the PPARGC1A Gly482Ser rs8192678 polymorphism has been associated with endurance athlete status and favourable aerobic training adaptations. However, the association of this polymorphism with performance amongst long-distance runners remains unclear. Accordingly, this study investigated whether rs8192678 was associated with elite status and competitive performance of long-distance runners. Genomic DNA from 656 Caucasian participants including 288 long-distance runners (201 men, 87 women) and 368 non-athletes (285 men, 83 women) was analysed. Medians of the 10 best UK times (Top10) for 10 km, half-marathon and marathon races were calculated, with all included athletes having personal best (PB) performances within 20% of Top10 (this study's definition of "elite"). Genotype and allele frequencies were compared between athletes and non-athletes, and athlete PB compared between genotypes. There were no differences in genotype frequency between athletes and non-athletes, but athlete Ser allele carriers were 2.5% faster than Gly/Gly homozygotes (p = 0.030). This study demonstrates that performance differences between elite long-distance runners are associated with rs8192678 genotype, with the Ser allele appearing to enhance performance.

Eager to set a record in a vertical race? Test your VO2max first!

We investigated the relationship between maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) and performance in vertical races (VRs). In total, 270 performances, from 26 VRs, and cardiopulmonary data of 64 highly-trained mountain runners (53 M, V O2max: 75.7±5.8 mL/min/kg; 11 F: 65.7±3.4 mL/min/kg), collected over a 11-year period (2012-2022), were analysed. The relationship between performance and VO2max was modelled separately for national (NVRs), international (IVRs), and VRs of current pole-unassisted and pole-assisted vertical kilometre (VK) records (RVRs). Three different (p<0.001) exponential models described the relationship between performance and VO2max in IVRs (R2=0.96, p<0.001), NRs (R2=0.91, p<0.001) and RVRs (R2=0.97, p<0.001). Estimated VO2max requirements (with 95% CI) to win/set a record time in IVRs were 86.2(85.3-87.1)/89.4(88.2-90.5) and 74.0(73.6-74.4)/76.8(76.4-77.3) mL/min/kg, for males and females, respectively, 86.1(85.0-87.1)/90.4(89.0-91.8) and 74.8(74.2-75.3)/77.1(77.6-77.7) mL/min/kg in RVRs, decreasing to 83.7(82.5-84.9)/87.6(86.0-89.2) and 66.8(65.9-67.7)/70.7(70.1-71.4) mL/min/kg in NVRs. Our study also suggested a tendency towards a non-uniform variation in the metabolic demand of off-road running, likely attributable to the different features of the VRs (e.g., terrain, technical level, use of poles). These data provide mean VO2max requirements for mountain runners to win and establish new records in VRs and stimulate new research on the energy cost of off-road running.

Independent Risk Factors Predicting Gradual Onset Injury in 2824 Trail Running Race Entrants: SAFER XVIII Study.

INTRODUCTION: Trail running is characterized by elevation changes, with uneven and varying running surfaces. Risk factors that may predict gradual-onset running-related injuries (GORRIs) in short-distance trail running have not been explored. The objective was to determine risk factors that predict GORRIs in trail running race entrants who entered mass community-based trail running events. METHODS: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, data were collected prospectively from a prerace medical screening questionnaire over 4 trail run events held annually. Using a Poisson regression model, runner demographics, race distance, running training/racing variables, history of chronic diseases (number of chronic diseases reported as a cumulative "chronic disease composite score"), and allergies were investigated to determine factors predicting self-reported GORRI history in the previous 12 mo. RESULTS: This study included 2824 race entrants (80% of entrants). The retrospective annual incidence for GORRIs was 13%. Independent risk factors predicting GORRIs were longer race distance (P<0.0001), increasing chronic disease composite score (P=0.0012), and a history of allergies (P=0.0056). The lower limb (94%) was the main anatomic region of GORRIs, and soft tissue injuries accounted for most (83%) GORRIs. Common specific GORRIs were iliotibial band syndrome (22%), Achilles tendon injury (10%), and hamstring injury (9%). CONCLUSIONS: Independent risk factors predicting GORRIs among trail running entrants included longer race distance, a higher chronic disease composite score, and a history of allergies. This study has highlighted trail running race entrants at risk for sustaining GORRIs who could be targeted for future injury prevention interventions.

VO2max and Velocity at VO2max Play a Role in Ultradistance Trail-Running Performance.

PURPOSE: Previous research has shown that maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) significantly influences performance in trail-running races up to 120 km but not beyond. Similarly, the influence of running economy on performance in ultratrail remains unclear. The aim of our study was, therefore, to determine the physiological predictors of performance in a 166-km trail-running race. METHODS: Thirty-three experienced trail runners visited the laboratory 4 to 8 weeks before the race to undergo physiological testing including an incremental treadmill test and strength assessments. Correlations and regression analyses were used to determine the physiological variables related to performance. RESULTS: Average finishing time was 37:33 (5:52) hours. Performance correlated significantly with VO2max (r = -.724, P < .001), velocity at VO2max (r = -.813, P < .001), lactate turn point expressed as percentage of VO2max (r = -.510, P = .018), cost of running (r = -.560, P = .008), and body fat percentage (r = .527, P = .012) but was not related to isometric strength. Regression analysis showed that velocity at VO2max predicted 65% of the variability in performance (P < .001), while a model combining VO2max and cost of running combined predicted 62% of the variability (P = .008). CONCLUSION: This is the first study to show that VO2max and velocity at VO2max are significant predictors of performance in a 166-km trail-running race. This suggests that ultratrail runners should focus on the development of these 2 qualities to optimize their race performance.

Performance Determinants in Trail-Running Races of Different Distances.

PURPOSE: While the physiological determinants of road running have been widely studied, there is a lack of research in trail-running racing performance. The aim of our study was to determine the physiological predictors of trail-running performance in races of different distances in similar terrain and weather conditions. METHODS: Seventy-five trail runners participating in one of the races of the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc were recruited. Previous to the race, each runner was evaluated with (1) an incremental treadmill test to determine maximal oxygen uptake, ventilatory thresholds, cost of running, and substrate utilization; (2) a power-force-velocity profile on a cycle ergometer; (3) maximal voluntary contractions of the knee extensors and plantar flexors; and (4) anthropometric characteristics. Neuromuscular fatigue was evaluated after the races. Twenty-four runners finished a SHORT (<55 km), 16 finished a MEDIUM (101 km), and 14 finished a LONG (>145 km) race. Correlations and multiple linear regressions were used to find the determinants of performance in each race distance. RESULTS: Performance in SHORT was explained by maximal oxygen uptake and lipid utilization at 10 km/h (r2 = .825, P < .001). Performance in MEDIUM was determined by maximal oxygen uptake, maximal isometric strength, and body fat percentage (r2 = .917, P < .001). A linear model could not be applied in LONG, but performance was correlated to peak velocity during the incremental test. CONCLUSIONS: Performance in trail running is mainly predicted by aerobic capacity, while lipid utilization also influences performance in races <60 km and performance in approximately 100 km is influenced by muscle strength and body composition.

Development of a trail running injury screening instrument: A multiple methods approach.

OBJECTIVE: To develop a trail running injury screening instrument (TRISI) for utilisation as clinical decision aid in determining if a trail runner is at an increased risk for injury. DESIGN: Multiple methods approach. METHODS: The study utilised five phases 1) identification of injury risk factors 2) determining the relevance of each identified risk factor in a trail running context, 3) creating the content of the Likert scale points from 0 to 4, 4) rescaling the Likert scale points to determine numerical values for the content of each Likert scale point, and 5) determining a weighted score for each injury risk factor that contributes to the overall combined composite score. RESULTS: Of the 77 identified injury risk factors, 26 were deemed relevant in trail running. The weighted score for each injury risk factor ranged from 2.21 to 5.53 with the highest calculated score being 5.53. The final TRISI includes risk categories of training, running equipment, demographics, previous injury, behavioural, psychological, nutrition, chronic disease, physiological, and biomechanical factors. CONCLUSION: The developed TRISI aims to assist the clinician during pre-race injury screening or during a training season to identify meaningful areas to target in designing injury risk management strategies and/or continuous health education.

Environmental Preferences and Concerns of Recreational Road Runners.

Recreational road running is growing in popularity and has been linked to numerous mental and physical health benefits. However, we know little about what environmental preferences or concerns runners have regarding participation in the sport, and whether differences exist across age and gender. We conducted a cross-sectional survey on recreational road runners to investigate the type of built and natural environments road runners prefer, as well as the safety and health concerns that may affect runners' choice of environment. Responses were analyzed by age and gender. A total of 1228 road runners responded to the survey; 59.6% of respondents were women and 32.1% of respondents were men. Most respondents preferred to run on asphalt or sidewalk surfaces, and preferred well-lit, tree-lined routes. Major concerns for both men and women include animals and dangerous road conditions. Men and women differed significantly in their responses to the importance of running around others and their primary concerns while running. Results of this study serve to deepen our understanding of recreational road runners' environmental preferences and concerns, providing valuable information for public health officials and city planners alike. This information must be considered if we are to continue to encourage uptake of running as a sport and reap its health effects.

Epidemiology, Clinical Characteristics, and Risk Factors for Running-Related Injuries among South African Trail Runners.

Trail running involves running on varying natural terrains, often including large elevation gains/losses. Trail running has a high risk of injury, and runners often participate in remote regions where medical support is challenging. The aim of this study was to determine the epidemiology, clinical characteristic, and associated injury risk factors among trail runners. A modified Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Questionnaire for Health Problems (OSTRC-H) was used biweekly to collect running-related injury (RRI) and training history data prospectively, among 152 participants (males n = 120, females n = 32) over 30 weeks. We report an overall injury rate of 19.6 RRIs per 1000 h and an RRI mean prevalence of 12.3%. The leading anatomical site of RRIs was the lower limb (82.9%), affecting the knee (29.8%), shin/lower leg (18.0%), and the foot/toes (13.7%). A history of previous RRI in the past 12 months (p = 0.0032) and having a chronic disease (p = 0.0188) are independent risk factors for RRIs among trail runners. Two in three trail runners sustain an RRI mainly affecting the knee, shin/lower leg, and foot/toes. A history of previous RRI in the past 12 months and a having chronic disease is independently associated with RRI among trail runners. These results could be used to develop future RRI prevention strategies, combined with clinical knowledge and experience.

Physiological Indicators of Trail Running Performance: A Systematic Review.

PURPOSE: To provide a systematic overview of physiological parameters used to determine the training status of a trail runner and how well these parameters correlate with real-world trail running performance. METHOD: An electronic literature search of the PubMed and Scopus digital databases was performed. Combinations of the terms "trail run" or "trail runner" or "trail running" and "performance" were used as search terms. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: Trail running performance most commonly correlated (mean [SD]) with maximal aerobic capacity (71%; r = -.50 [.32]), lactate threshold (57%; r = -.48 [.28]), velocity at maximal aerobic capacity (43%; r = -.68 [.08]), running economy (43%; r = -.31 [.22]), body fat percentage (43%; r = .55 [.21]), and age (43%; r = .52 [.14]). Regression analyses in 2 studies were based on a single variable predicting 48% to 60% of performance variation, whereas 5 studies included multiple variable regression analyses predicting 48% to 99% of performance variation. CONCLUSIONS: Trail running performance is multifaceted. The classic endurance model shows a weaker association with performance in trail running than in road running. Certain variables associated with trail running research (such as testing procedures, race profiles, and study participants) hinder the execution of comparative studies. Future research should employ trail-specific testing protocols and clear, objective descriptions of both the race profile and participants' training status.

Outpatient Assessment of Mechanical Load, Heat Strain and Dehydration as Causes of Transitional Acute Kidney Injury in Endurance Trail Runners.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to globally assess heat strain, dehydration, and mechanical load as acute kidney injury (AKI) indicators in amateur endurance trail athletes during a 35.3 km run. METHODS: Thirty amateur experienced trail runners completed an endurance trail run (total positive ascend 1815 m). The following assessments were performed at four measurement time points (pre-, during, immediately post [-post0h], and after 24 h of the finish of the run [-post24h]): serum test (creatinine, blood ureic nitrogen, albumin, creatine kinase, blood ureic nitrogen: creatinine ratio, creatinine clearance, and glomerular filtration rate), mechanical load (impacts and Player Load), heat strain and dehydration (hematocrit, urine solids, body weight and urine specific gravity), pain and exertion perception (rate of perceived exertion, lumbar and bipodal, and one-leg squat pain), and urinalysis (pH, protein, glucose, erythrocytes, and urine specific gravity). RESULTS: There were pre vs. post0h changes in all serum biomarkers (F = 5.4-34.45, p < 0.01). The change in these biomarkers correlated with an increase in mechanical load indicators (r = 0.47-59, p < 0.05). A total of 40% and 23.4% of participants presented proteinuria and hematuria, respectively. Pain and perceived exertion increased significantly due to effort made during the endurance trail running (F = 4.2-176.4, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Endurance trail running may lead to an increase in blood and urine indicators of transitional AKI. The difference in blood and urine markers was significantly related to the mechanical load during running, suggesting potential kidney overload and cumulative mechanical load.

Políticas de estado ou políticas de governo? uma análise sobre as políticas públicas de corrida de rua em Curitiba-Pr / State policies or government policies? an analysis of public policies of road runnings in Curitiba-Pr

RESUMO O presente artigo teve como objetivo analisar a configuração da estrutura das políticas públicas do esporte e lazer da cidade de Curitiba - PR, em relação ao universo da corrida de rua, no período compreendido entre 2008 e 2016. Sua metodologia - qualitativa e descritiva - utilizou-se da análise documental. Como resultados foram mapeados seis programas realizados pelo poder público municipal, classificados em impactos diretos e indiretos. Nenhuma ação foi enquadrada como política pública de Estado. Considera-se relevante a realização de estudos posteriores aprofundando as análises em cada uma das ações, compreendendo o processo de formulação das políticas públicas voltadas às corridas de rua.

ABSTRACT The present article had the objective of analyzing the configuration of the structure of the public policies of sport and leisure of the city of Curitiba - PR, in relation to the universe of the road running, in the period from 2008 to 2016. His methodology - qualitative and descriptive - was used from documentary analysis. As results were mapped six programs carried out by the municipal public power, classified in direct and indirect impacts. No action was framed as public state policy. It is considered relevant to carry out further studies by deepening the analyzes in each of the actions, including the process of formulating the public policies focused on road runnings.