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It is known that microtrauma exists in the thigh muscles after long‐distance running such as the half‐marathon. Moreover, training characteristics of long‐distance runners may influence the specificity of the distribution of muscle fiber types in the thigh and affect muscle responses to lipid metabolism. However, the specific changes in microtrauma and intramuscular lipid in thigh muscles after a half‐marathon are unknown. A cohort of 20 healthy recreational marathon runners was recruited to complete a half‐marathon. MRI T2 mapping and 6‐echo q‐Dixon sequences were employed at baseline (P1), 2–3 h after running (P2), and 1 day after running (P3). Inflammatory markers (the T2 values) and intramuscular fat fraction (the proton density fat fraction, PDFF) were measured in thigh muscles to detect microtrauma and intramuscular lipid changes, respectively. One‐way analysis of variance showed significant time effects for T2 values and PDFF. Post hoc analysis of the 14 datasets collected at three time points revealed significantly higher T2 values in all thigh muscles after running (all p < 0.05). Significant differences in T2 values persisted for all thigh muscles at P3 compared to P1 (all p < 0.05). The PDFF of the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis was significantly decreased at P2 compared to P1 (p < 0.05). No significant differences in PDFF were observed for the thigh muscles at P3 compared to P1. The manifestations of inflammation edema and intramuscular lipid investigated through MRI may offer valuable insights for recreational marathon runners regarding the lower limb movement characteristics during half‐marathon running. Highlights: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology stands as a valuable noninvasive tool for the observation of musculature.Utilizing MRI T2 mapping and 6‐echo q‐Dixon sequences facilitates the examination of inflammatory edema resulting from endurance exercise along with intramuscular lipid changes.The manifestations of inflammation edema and intramuscular lipid investigated through MRI may unveil novel perspectives on the movement characteristics of lower limbs in recreational marathon runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intensive physical activity (PA) can lead to proteinuria and, consequently, serum protein profiles in athletes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of acute aronia juice consumption before a simulated half-marathon race on serum protein profiles in recreational runners. The pilot study was designed as a single-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study, with 10 male participants who consumed aronia juice (containing 1.3 g polyphenols) or placebo before the race. The blood levels of total proteins, albumin, the non-albumin fractions gamma, beta, alpha2 and alpha1, as well as renal function parameters, were determined before and 15 min, 1 h and 24 h after the race. The significant changes in urea, creatinine and uric acid levels were noticed at selected time points in both groups. In the placebo group, a significant decrease in total proteins (p < 0.05) was observed 24 h after the race, along with an increase in gamma fraction abundance (p < 0.05). In addition, urea and uric acid levels returned to baseline only in the aronia group 24 h after the race. Thus, according to the results obtained, acute aronia juice supplementation before intensive PA could influence the transient change in renal function and PA-induced protein loss in recreational runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Long-distance running is a popular competitive sport. We performed the current research as to develop an easily accessible and applicable model to predict half-marathon performance in male recreational half-marathon runners by nomogram. Methods Male recreational half-marathon runners in Zhejiang Province, China were recruited. A set of literature-based and panel-reviewed questionnaires were used to assess the epidemiological conditions of the recruited runners. Descriptive and binary regression analyses were done for the profiling and identification of predictors related to higher half-marathon performance (completing time ≤ 105 min). Participants were assigned to the training set (n = 141) and the testing set (n = 61) randomly. A nomogram was used to visually predict the half-marathon performance, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) was used to evaluate the predictive ability of the nomogram. Results A total of 202 participants (median age: 49 years; higher half-marathon performance: 33.7%) were included. After multivariate analysis, three variables remained as significant predictors: longer monthly running distance [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.992, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.988 to 0.996, p

Background: Long-distance running is a popular competitive sport. We performed the current research as to develop an easily accessible and applicable model to predict half-marathon performance in male recreational half-marathon runners by nomogram. Methods: Male recreational half-marathon runners in Zhejiang Province, China were recruited. A set of literature-based and panel-reviewed questionnaires were used to assess the epidemiological conditions of the recruited runners. Descriptive and binary regression analyses were done for the profiling and identification of predictors related to higher half-marathon performance (completing time ≤ 105 min). Participants were assigned to the training set (n = 141) and the testing set (n = 61) randomly. A nomogram was used to visually predict the half-marathon performance, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) was used to evaluate the predictive ability of the nomogram. Results: A total of 202 participants (median age: 49 years; higher half-marathon performance: 33.7%) were included. After multivariate analysis, three variables remained as significant predictors: longer monthly running distance [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.992, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.988 to 0.996, p < 0.001], faster mean training pace (AOR = 2.151, 95% CI: 1.275 to 3.630, p < 0.001), and better sleep quality [the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), AOR = 2.390, 95% CI: 1.164 to 4.907, p = 0.018]. The AUC of the training and testing sets in nomogram were 0.750 and 0.743, respectively. Further ternary and linear regression analyses corroborated the primary findings. Conclusions: This study developed a nomogram with good potential to predict the half-marathon performance of recreational runners. Our results suggest that longer monthly running distance, faster mean training pace and better sleep quality notably contribute to better half-marathon performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of participants' motivations in sporting events is a recurring topic that provides valuable information for stakeholders interested in the event's success. This motivation structure varies between geographies and evolves, so addressing new case studies from fresh perspectives updates and enriches the knowledge on the subject. Through a survey of 416 participants in the Córdoba Half-Marathon, Spain, we aim to explore the existence of new dimensions of motivation to participate in running events, as well as to analyse if there are statistically significant differences between men and women in their participation motivations and the magnitude of these differences. To this end, an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) has been conducted, and the Mann–Whitney U and Hedges' G statistics have been utilised. The results of this research complement previous studies with two new dimensions of motivation: inclusivity at various levels and the posting of images on social networks. Additionally, the leading role of female participants is evident, as they are more motivated than men to compete and surpass themselves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although runner’s profiles were previously investigated, information on the training frequency and training distance for short (5 km, 10 km) and long-distance (>21 km) running is absent. The present study aimed to investigate the associations between training routines and exercise habits of recreational endurance runners considering self-reported preferred race distance [10 km, half-marathon (HM), and marathon/ultra-marathon (M/UM)] subgroups. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, sampling 154 recreational runners of both sexes. A web survey was used for data collection regarding age, sex, preferred distance (10-km, HM, M/UM), training routines, exercise habits, and periodized training routines. The Chi-square test (Cramer’s V) and Kruskal-Wallis test (Eta-Squared η²) with effect sizes were used for comparisons between race distances. Results: Significant differences were shown for anthropometric, training, and periodization characteristics. Highly significant differences were found between subgroups for the number of sessions, running kilometers, and training hours at all periods and within all four preparation conditions. M/ UM runners were training more frequently, for longer durations, and ran greater distances each week. Conclusion: This finding supports the notion that training habits and periodization characteristics are different for different race distances (10- km, half marathon, marathon, and ultramarathon). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundAlthough runner’s profiles were previously investigated, information on the training frequency and training distance for short (5 km, 10 km) and long-distance (>21 km) running is absent. The present study aimed to investigate the associations between training routines and exercise habits of recreational endurance runners considering self-reported preferred race distance [10 km, half-marathon (HM), and marathon/ultra-marathon (M/UM)] subgroups.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study, sampling 154 recreational runners of both sexes. A web survey was used for data collection regarding age, sex, preferred distance (10-km, HM, M/UM), training routines, exercise habits, and periodized training routines. The Chi-square test (Cramer’s V) and Kruskal-Wallis test (Eta-Squared η2) with effect sizes were used for comparisons between race distances.ResultsSignificant differences were shown for anthropometric, training, and periodization characteristics. Highly significant differences were found between subgroups for the number of sessions, running kilometers, and training hours at all periods and within all four preparation conditions. M/UM runners were training more frequently, for longer durations, and ran greater distances each week.ConclusionThis finding supports the notion that training habits and periodization characteristics are different for different race distances (10-km, half marathon, marathon, and ultramarathon).

The study of participants’ motivations in sporting events is a recurring topic that provides valuable information for stakeholders interested in the event’s success. This motivation structure varies between geographies and evolves, so addressing new case studies from fresh perspectives updates and enriches the knowledge on the subject. Through a survey of 416 participants in the Córdoba Half-Marathon, Spain, we aim to explore the existence of new dimensions of motivation to participate in running events, as well as to analyse if there are statistically significant differences between men and women in their participation motivations and the magnitude of these differences. To this end, an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) has been conducted, and the Mann–Whitney U and Hedges’ G statistics have been utilised. The results of this research complement previous studies with two new dimensions of motivation: inclusivity at various levels and the posting of images on social networks. Additionally, the leading role of female participants is evident, as they are more motivated than men to compete and surpass themselves.

There is limited work, to date, in which the potential performance-enhancing effects of Advanced Footwear Technology (AFT) in the female elite athlete has been considered. This study aimed to retrospectively explore publicly available race data for a marathon, half-marathon, and 10-km elite events to analyse the effect of AFT, along with athlete and event characteristics, to determine the effect on female running performance. Race performance times for the top 20 female athletes within the world were extracted from 1990 to 2020 (n = 1722), along with athlete and event characteristics from 2010 to 2020 (n = 660). Data for race shoes were available for 655 of the 660 performances. The changes in grouped mean performance times over the years that AFT had been adopted were compared with the grouped mean of the corresponding number of years immediately prior show marathon, half-marathon, and 10-km performance times were 1.7, 1.72, and 1.75% (p < 0.001, pη2 > 0.220) faster during the AFT period. Repeated performance analysis comparing the improvement in race times between the control group and athletes who adopted AFT showed athletes who adopted AFT improved significantly more over the marathon (2.64%, p < 0.001) and half-marathon (1.67%, p < 0.002). Advanced Footwear Technology correlated (r > 0.50) with improvements in the marathon and half-marathon, but not the 10-km. Based on multiple regression modelling, it can be suggested that wearing AFT improves marathon race time by 78 s (0.93%), and half-marathon race time by 28 s (0.71%). Based on these results, we observe a small but meaningful performance-enhancing effect of AFT within elite female athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential running or endurance performance difference based on following different general types of diets, such as omnivorous, vegetarian, or vegan, remains questionable. Several underlying modifiable factors of long-distance running performance, especially runner training behaviors and experience, diminish the clarity of results when analyzing dietary subgroups. Based on the cross-sectional design (survey), the NURMI Study Step 2 aimed to investigate a plethora of training behaviors among recreational long-distance running athletes and the relationship of general diet types with best time race performance. The statistical analysis was based on Chi-squared and Wilcoxon tests. The final sample (n = 245) included fit recreational long-distance runners following an omnivorous diet (n = 109), a vegetarian diet (n = 45), or a vegan diet (n = 91). Significant differences were found between the dietary subgroups in body mass index (p = 0.001), sex (p = 0.004), marital status (p = 0.029), and running-related motivations for well-being (p < 0.05) but not in age (p = 0.054). No significant difference was found for best time half-marathon, marathon, and/or ultra-marathon race performance based on diet type (p > 0.05). Whether the vegan diet is associated with enhanced endurance performance remains unclear. Although, the present results are suggestive that 100% plant-based (vegan) nutrition is compatible with distance running performance at the least. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Knee injury is common in half-marathon runners, however, the effect of compression running pants on fatigue and knee proprioception remains unclear.Objectives: The study aims to investigate whether wearing compression running pants (CRP) and treadmill running stages affect knee proprioception and fatigue-related physiological responses during half-marathon running.Methods: Eighteen half-marathon runners completed two self-paced 21 km treadmill running trials, once wearing CRP and once wearing loose running shorts (LRS). For each 21 km run, RPE, heart rate, blood lactic acid, and knee flexion proprioception were assessed before starting, and after each 7 km stage.Results: Data analysis revealed no difference between CRP and LRS conditions in heart rate, RPE, or blood lactic acid. Repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant garment condition main effect whereby wearing CRP was associated with higher knee proprioceptive acuity (p = 0.006). Polynomial trend analysis showed a significant linear downwards trend in proprioceptive acuity across the four measurement occasions (p = 0.048). Stage analysis showed that wearing CRP was associated with better knee proprioception at running distances of 14 km (p = 0.007, 95%CI = -0.054, -0.010) and 21 km (p = 0.016, 95%CI = -0.051, -0.006).Conclusion: Compression running pants provide an overall positive effect on knee proprioception, particularly after 14 km and 21km, which may reduce the probability of knee injury. CRP had no significant effect on physiological measures in half-marathon running.

This study aims to investigate vegetarian and mixed diet type prevalences among distance runners at running events around the world and associations with running-related patterns and performance. Following a cross-sectional approach, linear regression analyses were carried out to identify potential associations among body mass index (BMI), diet type, and average best performance times of half-marathon and marathon events for males and females. From a sample of 3835 runners who completed an online questionnaire, 2864 all-distance runners (age: 37 years; 57% females) were included in inferential analyses and categorized into dietary subgroups according to self-reports: 994 vegans (34.7%), 598 vegetarians (20.9%), and 1272 omnivores (44.4%). Significant associations were identified between kind of diet and best average time to finish (i) half-marathons in females where vegans (p = 0.001) took longer than omnivores, (ii) half-marathons in males where vegans (p < 0.001) and vegetarians (p = 0.002) took longer than omnivores, and (iii) marathons in males where vegans (p < 0.001) and vegetarians (p = 0.043) averaged slower than omnivores. Increased units of BMI (+1.0) in males influenced best runtimes: 2.75 (3.22–2.27) min slower for HM and 5.5 (5.69–4.31) min slower for M. The present study did not take detailed confounders into account such as runner motives or training behaviors; however, the results may provide valuable insight for running event organizers, nutrition experts, coaches, and trainers advising runners who adhere to a general diet type regarding the basic question of who participates in running events around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the popularity of distance running is growing worldwide, endurance runners' dietary challenges associated with their prolonged training and racing activities have not yet been fully understood. The present investigation was conducted with the aim of examining the association between race distance and dietary intake of distance runners. A total of 317 runners initially participated, and after data clearance, 211 endurance runners (57% females) were finally considered the study sample. Runners were assigned to three race distance groups: 10-km (n = 74), half-marathon (n = 83), and marathon/ultra-marathon (n = 54). An online survey was used to collect data; dietary intake was monitored using a comprehensive food frequency questionnaire, including 53 food groups categorized in 14 basic and three umbrella clusters. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between race distance groups in consumption of most food clusters except for "fruits and vegetables" and "total of protein", with a predominance of 10-km runners compared to half-marathoners and (ultra-)marathoners (p ≤ 0.05). Age was a significant predictor for the consumption of only five (out of 17) food clusters (p ≤ 0.05), including "fruit and vegetables", "unprocessed meat", "processed meat", "eggs", and "plant protein". Future investigations with a larger sample size and more differentiated (sub)groups may help provide comparable data to develop a better understanding of the dietary behaviors among shorter versus longer distance runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the acute effects of two different dosing strategies of caffeine ingestion and compared the effects of high dose (ingested before and during exercise) and moderate dose (only ingested before exercise) with placebo on free fatty acid responses and endurance performance in male half-marathon runners. Eight male half marathon runners were randomly assigned in a double-blind crossover design according to dosing strategy conditions: high dose (HIGH), ingested 6 mg·kg body mass-1 of caffeine before exercise and 3 mg·kg body mass-1 of caffeine during exercise (total caffeine ingested after both doses = 9 mg·kg body mass-1); moderate dose (MOD), ingested 6 mg·kg body mass-1 of caffeine only before exercise (total caffeine ingested after both doses = 6 mg·kg body mass-1), and placebo (PLA), performed to exhaustion test 60 min before each time to determine the endurance performance as well as serum caffeine, free fatty acids, glucose and lactate concentration, gastrointestinal symptoms, and rate of perceived exertion (RPE). There was a significant difference in the interaction effect for serum free fatty acids concentration at the time point of 120 min during exercise between the HIGH (0.086 ± 0.026 mmol/L) and PLA (0.051 ± 0.018 mmol/L) groups (p = 0.00). The ingestion of caffeine in moderate dose resulted in significantly longer time to exhaustion compared with placebo (127.46 ± 3.72 min vs. 124.61 ± 4.58 min, p = 0.02). In conclusion, consumption of a high dose of caffeine may help to improve endurance performance in male half-marathon runners via higher serum FFA concentration and increase fat oxidation at the proper rate to produce energy for prolonged aerobic exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex has been recognized to be an important indicator of physiological, psychological, and nutritional characteristics among endurance athletes. However, there are limited data addressing sex-based differences in dietary behaviors of distance runners. The aim of the present study is to explore the sex-specific differences in dietary intake of female and male distance runners competing at >10-km distances. From the initial number of 317 participants, 211 endurance runners (121 females and 90 males) were selected as the final sample after a multi-level data clearance. Participants were classified to race distance (10-km, half-marathon, marathon/ultra-marathon) and type of diet (omnivorous, vegetarian, vegan) subgroups. An online survey was conducted to collect data on sociodemographic information and dietary intake (using a comprehensive food frequency questionnaire with 53 food groups categorized in 14 basic and three umbrella food clusters). Compared to male runners, female runners had a significantly greater intake in four food clusters, including "beans and seeds", "fruit and vegetables", "dairy alternatives", and "water". Males reported higher intakes of seven food clusters, including "meat", "fish", "eggs", "oils", "grains", "alcohol", and "processed foods". Generally, it can be suggested that female runners have a tendency to consume healthier foods than males. The predominance of females with healthy dietary behavior can be potentially linked to the well-known differences between females and males in health attitudes and lifestyle patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine the effect of graduated compression socks on ankle proprioception and the relationship between fatigue and ankle proprioception measures in half-marathon runners at successive 7 km intervals during a 21-km run.Design: Repeated measures study.Methods: Twenty well-trained half-marathon runners (mean ± SD: age 38.6 ± 11.3 y, weekly volume 42.3 ± 21.1 km, training experience 4.7 ± 3.5 y) performed two 21 km running trials on a treadmill wearing either graduated compression socks or looser, standard non-compression running socks. Each running trial was divided into three self-paced 7 km blocks, repeated at the same pace for each trial, heart rate was not controlled, but after each block, heart rate, blood lactate, rating of perceived exertion, and ankle inversion proprioception were measured, the latter by using the active movement extent discrimination apparatus.Results: There was no differences between the graduated compression sock and non-compression running sock conditions in rating of perceived exertion scores (F = 0.524, p = 0.478), heart rate (F = 0.001, p = 0.975) and blood lactate (F = 0.004, p = 0.951). Overall, wearing graduated compression socks was associated with significantly better ankle proprioception after 21 km of running (p = 0.024, 95% CI = -0.066, -0.005). Heart rate, rating of perceived exertion and blood lactate were not correlated with ankle proprioception sensitivity in the graduated compression sock and non-compression running sock conditions at any point during the run (all p > 0.05).Conclusions: Wearing graduated compression socks provides a positive effect on proprioceptive control of the ankle joint only after 21 km and may therefore reduce the possibility of injury associated with proprioceptive ability diminishing over time during exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

QT interval (QT) variability analysis provides pathophysiological and prognostic information utilized in cardiac and non-cardiac diseases, complementary to those obtained from the analysis of heart period (HP) variability. An increased QT variability has been associated to a higher risk for cardiac events and poorest prognosis. Autonomic cardiovascular adaptation to internal and external challenges, such those occurring in athletes exposed to high levels of physical stress and in ageing could also be deepen by analyzing QT variability, searching for early prognostic signatures. The aim of the study was to analyze the QT variability and cardiac control complexity in a group of middle-aged half-marathon runners at baseline (B) and at a 10-year follow-up (FU). We found that the overall QT variability decreased at FU, despite the inescapable increase in age (52.3 ± 8.0 years at FU). This change was accompanied by an increase of the HP variability complexity without changes of the QT variability complexity. Of notice, over the years, the group of athletes maintained their regular physical activity by switching to a moderate intensity rather than strenuous. In conclusion, regular and moderate exercise over the years was beneficial for this group of athletes, as reflected by the decreased overall QT variability that is known to be associated to lower cardiovascular risk. The concomitant enhanced cardiac control complexity also suggests a trend opposite to what usually occurs with ageing, resulting in a more flexible cardiac control, typical of younger people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the motivations of Romanian Masters athletes to train for endurance running in order to participate in half-marathon competitions. The research method used was the survey. This tool consisted of a questionnaire that was purposely developed for the present research. Out of the 111 experienced respondents practising running for 13 years on average, 61.8% are men and 38.2% are women. The results are different and are mainly focused on reaching a state of well-being (67%) for both men (67.2%) and women (66.7%); there are significant differences between the 35-44 and 55+ age categories (t = 2.776, p < 0.01). This motivation has contributed to maintaining and improving physical performance with aging. Women are more motivated than men to run for health benefits. In conclusion, we believe that paying attention to motivation is important in terms of encouraging people of all ages to play outdoor sports, promoting a healthy lifestyle based on exercise and managing grassroots sport. The Masters athlete is a rich source of information regarding a person's ability to maintain maximum physical performance and physiological function as they get older. The impressive capacity for physical performance and physiological functioning makes Masters athletes a model for society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Now that sport is in step up with time and other technologies, and it is imposed also the attending of sport`s organizing, from the minor to the grand organizing and all of them bring benefits not only to federation but to the country too, in order of presentation of the best as it`s possible, so all this depends mainly by respecting some specific rules, tasks, structure and organizing to what this event is organized for. In this work we present a model of managing the organizing the half marathon activity which is organized for many years, which is known also in the international area. This work paper deals with organizing of this competition that is named as an international activity for many years. This work paper is dealt with organizing of this competition that already has a long experience and within itself we find the organizing forms and hierarchy from the top to the competitors that does its activity on track. This form of organizing is done in the line Kosovo Athletic Federation, Ministry of sports and sponsors that is support in continuity this international competition. In this international half-marathon participants were 900 athletes from over 40 countries, then in organizing is provided awards in money and according to the age and psych-physical abilities that are presented in chart.

Purpose: To analyze time-domain, spectral, and fractal properties of speed regulation during half-marathon racing. Methods: In 21 male experienced runners, high-resolution data on speed (V), stride frequency (SF), and stride length (SL) were assessed during half-marathon competition (21,098 m). Performance times, time-and frequency-domain variability, spectral-scaling exponent (beta), and fractal dimension (FD) of V, SF, and SL were analyzed. Results: V of 3.65 ± 0.41 m/s, SF of 1.41 ± 0.05 Hz, and SL of 2.58 ± 0.25 m occurred with higher (P < .05) individual variability in V and SL than in SF. Beta and FD were always 1.04-1.88 and 1.56-1.99, respectively. Beta and FD differed (P < .05) in SF and SL compared with V and were correlated in V and SL (r = .91, P < .05). Spectral peaks of V, SF, and SL occurred at wavelengths of 3-35 min, and those of V and SL were interrelated (r = .56, P < .05). Mean SF and mean SL were significantly correlated with performance (r = .59 and r = .95, P < .05). SL accounted for 84% ± 6% and SF for 16% ± 6% of speed variability. Conclusions: The observed nonrandom fluctuations in V, SF, and SL correspond to nonstationary fractional Brownian motion with inherent long-range correlations. This indicates a similar complex regulation process in experienced runners that is primarily mediated via SL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated pre-race preparation of a large sample of recreational runners competing in different race distances (e.g., shorter than half-marathon, half-marathon, marathon and ultra-marathon). An online questionnaire was used and a total of 3,835 participants completed the survey. Of those participants, 2,864 (75%) met the inclusion criteria and 1,628 (57%) women and 1,236 (43%) men remained after data clearance. Participants were categorized according to race distance in half-marathon (HM), and marathon/ultra-marathon (M/UM). Marathon and ultra-marathon data were pooled since the marathon distance is included in an ultra-marathon. The most important findings were (i) marathon and ultra-marathon runners were more likely to seek advice from a professional trainer, and (ii) spring was most commonly reported across all subgroups as the planned season for racing, (iii) training volume increased with increasing race distance, and (iv) male runners invested more time in training compared to female runners. In summary, runners competing in different race distances prepare differently for their planned race.Clinical Trial Registration:www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier ISRCTN73074080. Retrospectively registered 12th June 2015.

The present study investigated pre-race preparation of a large sample of recreational runners competing in different race distances (e.g., shorter than half-marathon, half-marathon, marathon and ultra-marathon). An online questionnaire was used and a total of 3,835 participants completed the survey. Of those participants, 2,864 (75%) met the inclusion criteria and 1,628 (57%) women and 1,236 (43%) men remained after data clearance. Participants were categorized according to race distance in half-marathon (HM), and marathon/ultra-marathon (M/UM). Marathon and ultra-marathon data were pooled since the marathon distance is included in an ultra-marathon. The most important findings were (i) marathon and ultra-marathon runners were more likely to seek advice from a professional trainer, and (ii) spring was most commonly reported across all subgroups as the planned season for racing, (iii) training volume increased with increasing race distance, and (iv) male runners invested more time in training compared to female runners. In summary, runners competing in different race distances prepare differently for their planned race. Clinical Trial Registration: www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier ISRCTN73074080. Retrospectively registered 12th June 2015. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors studied the effects of antioxidant diet supplementation with an almond-based beverage on neutrophil antioxidants, nitrite, and protein oxidative alterations after exercise. Fourteen trained male amateur runners were randomly assigned in a double-blind fashion to receive antioxidant supplementation (152 mg/d vitamin C and 50 mg/d vitamin E) or placebo using an almond-based beverage for 1 mo and participated in a half-marathon race. Blood samples were taken before and after the half-marathon and after 3 hr recovery. Supplementation significantly increased basal neutrophil vitamin C compared with placebo (p < .05). Exercise increased neutrophil vitamin E levels in the supplemented group and decreased vitamin C in both groups after recovery (p < .05). Neutrophil catalase and glutathione peroxidase gene expression and nitrite levels were significantly increased as result of exercise (p < .05). Nitrotyrosine and protein carbonyl derivates increased only in the placebo group after exercise (p < .05), and these values remained high at recovery. No significant differences were evidenced in caspase-3 activity and DNA damage. Antioxidant supplementation with vitamins C and E reduced the exercise-induced oxidation of proteins in neutrophils, without altering the antioxidant adaptive response, as evidenced by the increased catalase and glutathione peroxidase gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To study the effects of running with/without the use of pain killers on urinary neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (uNGAL) and other parameters of kidney function in recreational runners. Methods: Participants of the 10‐ and 21.1‐km Weir Venloop race were enrolled and their urine samples collected before and after the run. Urine dipstick and other conventional tests used to assess kidney function were performed. The presence of ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen, and/or paracetamol was assessed by LC‐MS/MS. uNGAL was measured with a two‐step chemiluminescent immunoassay. Results: NSAIDs/analgesics were detected in urine of 5 (14.4%) 10‐km runners and 13 (28.9%) 21.1‐km runners. Only half‐marathon participants showed significant increases in uNGAL (pre: 11.7 [7.1‐34.3] ng/mL; post: 33.4 [17.4‐50.4] ng/mL; P =.0038). There was a significant effect of NSAID/analgesic use on uNGAL increase (F2, 76 = 4.210, P =.004). Post hoc tests revealed that uNGAL increased significantly in runners who tested positive for ibuprofen/naproxen compared to runners who did not use any medications (P =.045) or those who tested positive for paracetamol (P =.033). Running distance had a significant influence on the increase in uNGAL (F1, 53 = 4.741, P <.05), specific gravity (F1, 60 = 9.231, P <.01), urinary creatinine (F1, 61 = 10.574, P <.01), albumin (F1, 59 = 4.888, P <.05), and development of hematuria (χ2(4) = 18.44, P =.001). Conclusions: Running distance and use of ibuprofen/naproxen were identified as risk factors for uNGAL increase in recreational runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To test the effectiveness on recreational female middle-aged runners of a programme of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for a half-marathon race contrasted to a conventional moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT).Methods: Twenty recreational female runners (40 ± 7 years) followed MICT or HIIT schedules for training a half-marathon. The MICT group trained a mean of 32 km/week at intensities below 80% VO2max. The HIIT group ran 25 km/week at intensities between 80 and 100% VO2max, combined with uphill running and resistance training. Women following HIIT ran 21% less distance and invested 17% less time than those from MICT group. All the women were evaluated at the beginning and end of the training and participated in the same half-marathon run.Results: Women following both schedules reduced their previous finishing times by 2-3%, which for HIIT group would have meant rising up to 90 positions out of 1454 participants in the local half-marathon race. The high intensity performed during series of high power output (200 m and 400 m) and resistance sessions in HIIT programme promoted changes that allowed modifying efficiency at high workloads. At the same time, the HIIT training programme elicited changes in oxygen uptake and transport as indicated the cardiorespiratory parameters obtained during recovery in lab tests. Moreover, HIIT registered a 14% baseline decrease in heart rate contrasting to the not significant 6% decrease in MICT.Conclusions: Runners following HIIT training obtained similar registers as with a traditional MICT schedule, expending less time and running shorter distances, yet improving their anaerobic and aerobic power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This project aimed to evaluate the simple visual reaction time (SVRT) changes in runners of both sexes before and after a 21.1 km run. Methods: 20 male (age 35.3 ± 17.1 years, BMI 23.5 ± 3.3 kg/m2) and 20 female (age 32.2 ± 14.3 years, BMI 24.8 ± 4.2 kg/m2) amateur runners were evaluated 30 min before and after a half-marathon run under competing conditions. Subjects were asked to push an electronic switch at the lighting of a lamp for 11 trials randomly divided to one another between 1 and 10 s. Effort-perception data were collected through a Borg CR100 scale and SVRT data using an electronic chronometric device. A two-way RM ANOVA assessed the effects of exercise and biological sex on SVRT. Results: Borg effort data were similar (M: 82.4 ± 3.9 vs W: 84.7 ± 4.9 AU, p = 0.68). SVRT was lower in men than women before (M: 234.05 ± 3.33 vs F: 239.47 ± 6.1 ms, p < 0.05) but not after the race (M: 249.9 ± 7.18 vs F: 252.09 ± 16.93 ms, p = 0.7). Exercise lengthened the SVRT (M: + 7%; F: + 5%; p < 0.05). Response accuracy was greater in men both before and after exercise. Conclusion: Previous studies suggested exercise lengthened SVRT due to an exercise intensity-related reduced post-exercise cerebral oxygenation that decreases cognitive processes efficiency. In our results, this reduction seemed higher in men. The sex-related response accuracy might be due to different estrogen effects in brain areas implicated in information processing, motor performance, and attention and to different processing and attention focus strategies between the sexes or anticipatory strategies in females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Participation in half-marathon has been steeply increasing during the past decade. In line, a vast number of half-marathon running schedules has surfaced. Unfortunately, the injury incidence proportion for half-marathoners has been found to exceed 30% during 1-year follow-up. The majority of running-related injuries are suggested to develop as overuse injuries, which leads to injury if the cumulative training load over one or more training sessions exceeds the runners’ load capacity for adaptive tissue repair. Owing to an increase of load capacity along with adaptive running training, the runners’ running experience and pace abilities can be used as estimates for load capacity. Since no evidence-based knowledge exist of how to plan appropriate half-marathon running schedules considering the level of running experience and running pace, the aim of ProjectRun21 is to investigate the association between running experience or running pace and the risk of running-related injury. Methods Healthy runners using Global Positioning System (GPS) watch between 18 and 65 years will be invited to participate in this 14-week prospective cohort study. Runners will be allowed to self-select one of three half-marathon running schedules developed for the study. Running data will be collected objectively by GPS . Injury will be based on the consensus-based time loss definition by Yamato et al.: “Running-related (training or competition) musculoskeletal pain in the lower limbs that causes a restriction on or stoppage of running (distance, speed, duration, or training) for at least 7 days or 3 consecutive scheduled training sessions, or that requires the runner to consult a physician or other health professional”. Running experience and running pace will be included as primary exposures, while the exposure to running is pre-fixed in the running schedules and thereby conditioned by design. Time-to-event models will be used for analytical purposes. Discussion ProjectRun21 will examine if particular subgroups of runners with certain running experiences and running paces seem to sustain more running-related injuries compared with other subgroups of runners. This will enable sport coaches, physiotherapists as well as the runners to evaluate their injury risk of taking up a 14-week running schedule for half-marathon.

Objectives: The health benefits from participation in half-marathon is challenged by a yearly running-related injury (RRI) incidence proportion exceeding 30%. Research in injury etiology is needed to successfully prevent injuries. The body's load capacity is believed to play an essential role for injury development. Therefore, the purpose of ProjectRun21 was to investigate the association between load capacity defined as running experience and running pace, and RRI when following a specific half-marathon running schedule.Design: A 14-week prospective cohort study.Methods: A cohort of 784 healthy runners followed a specific half-marathon running schedule. Data on running activity was collected objectively using a Global-Positioning-System watch or smartphone. RRI were collected using e-mail-based weekly questionnaires. Primary exposures were running experience and running pace, dichotomized into a high and a low group for runners running less or more than 15km/week and faster or slower than 6min/km, respectively. Data was analyses through time-to-event models with cumulative risk difference (RD) as measure of association.Results: A total of 136 participants sustained a RRI during follow-up. Although not statistically significant, all estimates indicate a tendency toward fewer injuries amongst runners categorized as having high experience (RD=-11.3% (-27.2% to 4.6%)) or high pace (RD=-17.4% (-39.0% to 4.5%)), and a combination of both high experience and high pace (RD=-8.1% (-22.3% to 6.1%)) compared with their counterpart peers.Conclusions: Runners covering less than 15km per week, and/or runs slower than 6min/km, may sustain more RRI than their counterpart runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Now that sport is in step up with time and other technologies, and it is imposed also the attending of sport`s organizing, from the minor to the grand organizing and all of them bring benefits not only to federation but to the country too, in order of presentation of the best as it`s possible, so all this depends mainly by respecting some specific rules, tasks, structure and organizing to what this event is organized for. In this work we present a model of managing the organizing the half marathon activity which is organized for many years, which is known also in the international area. This work paper deals with organizing of this competition that is named as an international activity for many years. This work paper is dealt with organizing of this competition that already has a long experience and within itself we find the organizing forms and hierarchy from the top to the competitors that does its activity on track. This form of organizing is done in the line Kosovo Athletic Federation, Ministry of sports and sponsors that is support in continuity this international competition. In this international half-marathon participants were 900 athletes from over 40 countries, then in organizing is provided awards in money and according to the age and psych-physical abilities that are presented in chart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Exercise-associated muscle cramping (EAMC) is a significant medical complication in distance runners, yet factors associated with EAMC are poorly documented. Objective: To document risk factors associated with EAMC in runners. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Two ocean races (21.1 km, and 56 km). Participants: Fifteen thousand seven hundred seventy-eight race entrants. Methods: Participants completed a prerace medical history screening tool including: training, cardiovascular disease (CVD), risk factors for, and symptoms of CVD, history of diseases affecting major organ systems, cancer, allergies, medication use, and running injury. Runners were grouped as having a history of EAMC (hEAMC group = 2997) and a control group (Control = 12 781). Results: Independent factors associated with a higher prevalence ratio (PR) of hEAMC were any risk factor for CVD (PR = 1.16; P = 0.0002), symptoms of CVD (PR = 2.38; P < 0.0001), respiratory disease (PR = 1.33; P < 0.0001), gastrointestinal disease (PR = 1.86; P < 0.0001), nervous system or psychiatric disease (PR = 1.51; P < 0.0001), kidney or bladder disease, (PR = 1.60; P < 0.0001), haematological or immune disease (PR = 1.54; P = 0.0048), cancer (PR = 1.34; P = 0.0031), allergies (PR = 1.37; P < 0.0001), regular medication use (PR = 1.80; P < 0.0001), statin use (PR = 1.26; P = 0.0127), medication use during racing (PR = 1.88; P < 0.0001), running injury (PR = 1.66; P < 0.0001), muscle injury (PR = 1.82; P < 0.0001), tendon injury (PR = 1.62; P < 0.0001), and runners in the experienced category (PR = 1.22; P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Novel risk factors associated with EAMC in distance runners were underlying chronic disease, medication use, a history of running injuries, and experienced runners. These factors must be identified as possible associations, and therefore be considered in the diagnosis and treatment of EAMC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Cardiac Troponins (cTnI, cTnT), NT-proBNP, and galectin-3 (GAL-3) mirror cardiomyocyte injury, stretch, and fibrosis. However, although these biomarkers has been thoroughly studied in marathon or ultramarathon, the effects occurring running shorter distances, as half-marathon, are less known and data are generally limited to immediately post-race evaluation. Moreover, significant variation of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT), an anti-protease factor with anti-inflammatory properties, has been recently observed in heart failure, but not investigated in paraphysiological settings. The aim of the study was to evaluate these biomarkers concentration and trends in trained runners before half-marathon run and during a 48-h recovery period.Methods: In 18 half-marathon runners (15 males, 46 ± 6 years), cTnI, GAL-3 (Architect, Abbott), cTnT, NT-proBNP (Cobas e411, Roche), and AAT (Abcam, Cambridge, UK) were evaluated at rest, immediately post-run, and at 24 and 48-h recovery period.Results: cTnT, NT-proBNP, and GAL-3 transiently increased after post-race, but normalized at 24 h (GAL-3 p < 0.01, cTnT < 0.001) or 48 h (NT-proBNP < 0.001), while cTnI and AAT did not significantly change. The frequency of values exceeding the diagnostic threshold, as evaluated at baseline and after the race, did not differ for cTnI ([Formula: see text] = 1.1, p = ns), and NT-proBNP ([Formula: see text] = 6, p = ns), but significantly increased for cTnT ([Formula: see text] = 23, p < 0.001) and GAL-3 ([Formula: see text] = 6.3, p < 0.05). None of the subjects showed AAT values exceeding the reference range at baseline and at any of the time points after the race.Conclusion: The transient cTnT, NT-proBNP, and GAL-3 increase may suggest a temporary stress on the myocyte. However, being the increase of all biomarkers moderate and reversible, it may represent a physiological response to acute exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to understand the effect of endurance running on inflammation, it is necessary to quantify the extent to which acute and chronic running affects inflammatory mediators. The aim of this study was to summarize the literature on the effects of endurance running on inflammation mediators. Electronic searches were conducted on PubMED and Science Direct with no limits of date and language of publication. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized controlled trials (NRCTs) investigating the acute and chronic effects of running on inflammation markers in runners were reviewed by two researchers for eligibility. The modified Downs and Black checklist for the assesssments of the methodological quality of studies was subsequently used. Fifty-one studies were finally included. There were no studies with elite athletes. Only two studies were chronic interventions. Results revealed that acute and chronic endurance running may affect anti- and pro-inflammatory markers but methodological differences between studies do not allow comparisons or generalization of the results. The information provided in this systematic review would help practitioners for better designing further studies while providing reference values for a better understanding of inflammatory responses after different running events. Further longitudinal studies are needed to identify the influence of training load parameters on inflammatory markers in runners of different levels and training background.

Background: Participation in half-marathon has been steeply increasing during the past decade. In line, a vast number of half-marathon running schedules has surfaced. Unfortunately, the injury incidence proportion for half-marathoners has been found to exceed 30% during 1-year follow-up. The majority of running-related injuries are suggested to develop as overuse injuries, which leads to injury if the cumulative training load over one or more training sessions exceeds the runners' load capacity for adaptive tissue repair. Owing to an increase of load capacity along with adaptive running training, the runners' running experience and pace abilities can be used as estimates for load capacity. Since no evidence-based knowledge exist of how to plan appropriate half-marathon running schedules considering the level of running experience and running pace, the aim of ProjectRun21 is to investigate the association between running experience or running pace and the risk of running-related injury. Methods: Healthy runners using Global Positioning System (GPS) watch between 18 and 65 years will be invited to participate in this 14-week prospective cohort study. Runners will be allowed to self-select one of three half-marathon running schedules developed for the study. Running data will be collected objectively by GPS. Injury will be based on the consensus-based time loss definition by Yamato et al.: ' Running-related (training or competition) musculoskeletal pain in the lower limbs that causes a restriction on or stoppage of running (distance, speed, duration, or training) for at least 7 days or 3 consecutive scheduled training sessions, or that requires the runner to consult a physician or other health professional'. Running experience and running pace will be included as primary exposures, while the exposure to running is pre-fixed in the running schedules and thereby conditioned by design. Time-to-event models will be used for analytical purposes. Discussion: ProjectRun21 will examine if particular subgroups of runners with certain running experiences and running paces seem to sustain more running-related injuries compared with other subgroups of runners. This will enable sport coaches, physiotherapists as well as the runners to evaluate their injury risk of taking up a 14-week running schedule for half-marathon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to understand the effect of endurance running on inflammation, it is necessary to quantify the extent to which acute and chronic running affects inflammatory mediators. The aim of this study was to summarize the literature on the effects of endurance running on inflammation mediators. Electronic searches were conducted on PubMED and Science Direct with no limits of date and language of publication. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized controlled trials (NRCTs) investigating the acute and chronic effects of running on inflammation markers in runners were reviewed by two researchers for eligibility. The modified Downs and Black checklist for the assesssments of the methodological quality of studies was subsequently used. Fifty-one studies were finally included. There were no studies with elite athletes. Only two studies were chronic interventions. Results revealed that acute and chronic endurance running may affect anti- and pro-inflammatory markers but methodological differences between studies do not allow comparisons or generalization of the results. The information provided in this systematic review would help practitioners for better designing further studies while providing reference values for a better understanding of inflammatory responses after different running events. Further longitudinal studies are needed to identify the influence of training load parameters on inflammatory markers in runners of different levels and training background. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the influence of foot strike pattern on running economy and biomechanical characteristics in subelite runners with a similar performance level. Methods: Twenty subelite long-distance runners participated and were divided into two groups according to their foot strike pattern: rearfoot (RF, n = 10) and midfoot (MF, n = 10) strikers. Anthropometric characteristics were measured (height, body mass, body mass index, skinfolds, circumferences, and lengths); physiological (V̇O2max, anaerobic threshold, and running economy) and biomechanical characteristics (contact and flight times, step rate, and step length) were registered during both incremental and submaximal tests on a treadmill. Results: There were no significant intergroup differences in anthropometrics, V̇O2max, or anaerobic threshold measures. RF strikers were 5.4%, 9.3%, and 5.0% more economical than MF at submaximal speeds (11, 13, and 15 km·h-1 respectively, although the difference was not significant at 15 km·h-1, P = 0.07). Step rate and step length were not different between groups, but RF showed longer contact time (P < 0.01) and shorter flight time (P < 0.01) than MF at all running speeds. Conclusions: The present study showed that habitually rearfoot striking runners are more economical than midfoot strikers. Foot strike pattern affected both contact and flight times, which may explain the differences in running economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]