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Copyright of Medicina Sportiva Bohemica et Slovaca is the property of Ceska spolecnost telovychovneho lekarstvi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study determined the effects of highly branched cyclic dextrin (HBCD) ingestion on running performance, glucoregulatory hormone levels, and metabolic responses. Seven male runners were provided two separate randomized ingestions of 1.5 g·kg-1 BW of HBCD and maltodextrin (MDX) prior to running to exhaustion. The blood insulin levels, salivary cortisol levels, metabolic variables, and time to exhaustion were determined. There were no significant differences observed between HBCD and MDX in any of the variables examined. However, HBCD showed a tendency towards higher levels of serum free fatty acids and blood lactate compared to MDX. Notably, no gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms were reported throughout the trials, indicating good tolerance for both HBCD and MDX. In conclusion, the acute ingestion of HBCD did not result in significant differences in running performance, and hormonal and metabolic responses compared to MDX. Both HBCD and MDX demonstrated excellent gastrointestinal (GI) tolerance, even under high intensity running conditions, which suggests the potential as beneficial energy sources during intense competitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Esporte is the property of Redprint Editora Ltda. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Esporte is the property of Redprint Editora Ltda. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Esporte is the property of Redprint Editora Ltda. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Esporte is the property of Redprint Editora Ltda. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Esporte is the property of Redprint Editora Ltda. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Chuychai J, Srihirun K, Chinapong S, Sanpasitt C, Khaosanit P, Nokkaew N. Fluid Containing Highly Branched Cyclic Dextrin: An Alternative Ergogenic Aid to Enhance Endurance Exercise Performance in Long-Distance Runners. JEPonline 2022;25(4):1-13. Thirteen male marathon runners completed the randomized, double-blind, and crossover study to investigate the effects of the highly branched cyclic dextrin (HBCD) and glucose-containing beverages (GLUC) on running endurance capacity. Thirty minutes before each time to exhaustion (TTE) test, participants ingested 500 mL of either 1.5 g·kg-1 BW of HBCD or glucose. The TTE consisted of a 3-minute warm-up, a 30-minute run at the velocity at VT1 and running at the velocity at VT2 until exhaustion to determine the endurance capacity, as well as blood glucose and lactate concentration, HR, RPE, and fluid loss. There was no significant difference in the interaction effect for blood glucose and lactate concentration, HR, and RPE between HBCD and GLUC over the period of trials. HBCD ingestion prior to exercise resulted in longer TTE than GLUC (42.67 ± 4.92 vs. 40.77 ± 4.40 minutes, P = 0.02) and less body fluid loss than GLUC (0.28 ± 0.18 vs. 0.50 ± 0.32 kg, P = 0.04). In conclusion, an HBCD beverage ingestion may help to maintain fluid loss more effectively than consuming an isocaloric glucose beverage, resulting in improved endurance performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The ACSL A/G single nucleotide polymorphism is associated with endurance trainability. It was previously demonstrated that AA carriers had a reduced maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) in response to training compared to GG carriers, and that this polymorphism explained 6.1% of the variance in the VO2 max response to training. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of the ACSL A/G polymorphism among soccer players. Methods: One hundred and sixty-seven male athletes (60 soccer players, 48 sprinters and jumpers, 59 longdistance runners) and 60 non-athletic controls participated in the study. Genomic DNA was extracted from buccal epithelial cells using standard protocol for ACSL genotyping Results: The prevalence of the ACSL AA genotype was significantly higher among soccer players (35%) compared to controls (12%), sprinters and jumpers (15%) and long-distance runners (15%). The findings suggest that despite the importance of aerobic capacity for soccer performance, the prevalence of ACSL AA carriers - a genotype that was related to reduced endurance trainability - is significantly higher among soccer players compared to endurance and power athletes and controls. This genetically unfavorable predisposition should be considered when selecting the team squad and when planning fitness training modalities throughout the competitive season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overhydration is the primary cause of exercise-associated hyponatremia (EAH). If intended hydration practices are different than actual practices, this may lead to overhydration and will increase the risk of EAH. The purpose of this research was to assess and compare the selfreported hydration practices of long-distance trail runners during an intended long training run, an intended event, and during an actual event. The researchers hypothesized hydration volumes and strategies intended would be different than actual. In a crosssectional pre- and post-online survey design, the participants completed a pre-race survey (n = 26) and a post-race survey (n = 17) in two different Connecticut trail races. A moderate correlation (R = 0.52, P = 0.05) was found when comparing volumes during the actual event to the intended event. In addition, moderate agreement (64-85%) was found to be significant by the Kappa statistic when comparing the hydration strategies in the intended and the actual events. Finally, this study found that 50% of participants reported knowledge and awareness of EAH, while 62% felt they had a solid understanding of an effective hydration plan. These findings indicate the need for ongoing and further education in the trail running community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated plantar impulse, dynamic longitudinal arch (LA) angle, plantar fascia thickness (PFT), and pressure pain threshold (PPT) in 10 long-distance runners with plantar fasciitis (PF) and 10 controls without PF. The subjects were examined for PFT by ultrasonography. PPT score was determined using a pressure algometer. Moreover, the dynamic LA angle and the vertical ground reaction force were recorded using a motion capture system synchronized with a force plate during barefoot running at the speed of 3 to 3.67 m·s -1 in the laboratory. An independent t-test was used to analyze differences between the PF and Control Groups. Runners with PF showed significant differences in braking (P=0.017) and propulsive (P=0.034) impulses, braking (P=0.043) and propulsive (P=0.004) LA angles, PFT (P<0.001), and the PPT score (P< 0.001) compared to runners without PF. Understanding the plantar impulse and dynamic LA angle during running related to PFT and pain perception may potentially improve the assessment and rehabilitation of PF in long-distance runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Esporte is the property of Redprint Editora Ltda. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Anthony Burgess’s text A Clockwork Orange, John Osborne’s Look Back in Anger and Amis’s Lucky Jim are all works focused on the influence of The Angry Young Man movement. A Clockwork Orange is more of a satirical reference to an epoch when desire regarding social conformity and modern scientific discussions were recognized as a way of regulating dissenting youth. Puberty, anguish and aggressive revolt that comprises the very core of the protagonist of Burgess's novel, Alex. Amis’s Jim Dixon and Osborne’s Jimmy Porter are ascribed to the British "Angry Young Man" movement which was widespread during the nineteen fifties and was amply demonstrated by their literary "voice" performing in various scenes in their works. This paper attempts to reflect on the way the following novels and their corresponding characters as the mentioned works advance demonstrate this trend. Alan Sillitoe's novel Saturday Night and Sunday Morning and three novellas from The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Runner are used as a means to lay groundwork for such popular type. As Alex represents the hideous satire of rebellious youth, the aim is to emphasize on how the rage displayed in these works hits the peak point at the beginning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Elite athletes' pacing behaviors differ depending on race distance and whether races longer than 800 m are conducted during championships or "meets." • Optimizing finishing position requires the adoption of a leading position with as much as a lap remaining in 1500 m and 5000 m championship races. • Staying within a pack of runners who follow a realistic, non-excessive pace from the beginning of major championship long-distance races is also recommended to optimize performance (finishing time). The pacing behaviors used by elite athletes differ among individual sports, necessitating the study of sport-specific pacing profiles. Additionally, pacing behaviors adopted by elite runners differ depending on race distance. An "all-out" strategy, characterized by initial rapid acceleration and reduction in speed in the later stages, is observed during 100 m and 200 m events; 400 m runners also display positive pacing patterns, which is characterized by a reduction in speed throughout the race. Similarly, 800 m runners typically adopt a positive pacing strategy during paced "meet" races. However, during championship races, depending on the tactical approaches used by dominant athletes, pacing can be either positive or negative (characterized by an increase in speed throughout). A U-shaped pacing strategy (characterized by a faster start and end than during the middle part of the race) is evident during world record performances at meet races in 1500 m, 5000 m, and 10,000 m events. Although a parabolic J-shaped pacing profile (in which the start is faster than the middle part of the race but is slower than the endspurt) can be observed during championship 1500 m races, a negative pacing strategy with microvariations of pace is adopted by 5000 m and 10,000 m runners in championship races. Major cross country and marathon championship races are characterized by a positive pacing strategy; whereas a U-shaped pacing strategy, which is the result of a fast endspurt, is adopted by 3000 m steeplechasers and half marathoners. In contrast, recent world record marathon performances have been characterized by even pacing, which emphasizes the differences between championship and meet races at distances longer than 800 m. Studies reviewed suggest further recommendations for athletes. Throughout the whole race, 800 m runners should avoid running wide on the bends. In turn, during major championship events, 1500 m, 5000 m, and 10,000 m runners should try to run close to the inside of the track as much as possible during the decisive stages of the race when the speed is high. Staying within the leading positions during the last lap is recommended to optimize finishing position during 1500 m and 5000 m major championship races. Athletes with more modest aims than winning a medal at major championships are advised to adopt a realistic pace during the initial stages of long-distance races and stay within a pack of runners. Coaches of elite athletes should take into account the observed difference in pacing profiles adopted in meet races vs. those used in championship races: fast times achieved during races with the help of one or more pacemakers are not necessarily replicated in winner-takes-all championship races, where pace varies substantially. Although existing studies examining pacing characteristics in elite runners through an observational approach provide highly ecologically valid performance data, they provide little information regarding the underpinning mechanisms that explain the behaviors shown. Therefore, further research is needed in order to make a meaningful impact on the discipline. Researchers should design and conduct interventions that enable athletes to carefully choose strategies that are not influenced by poor decisions made by other competitors, allowing these athletes to develop more optimal and successful behaviors. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Esporte is the property of Redprint Editora Ltda. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of Cordyceps sinensis supplementation on reducing fatigue in endurance sport athletes. Twelve male long-distance runners (age 37.3 ± 3.4 years, VO2 max 53.8 ± 3.7 mL·kg-1·min-1) participated in this randomized, repeated measures, counterbalanced single-blind study design. After baseline testing, the 2-week ingestion of Cordyceps sinensis (CS), Sodium bicarbonate (SB), and placebo (ST) alternately assigned to all subjects with separated by a 1-week washout period. Time to exhaustion (TTE), ventilatory threshold (VT1 and VT2), and VO2 max were measured after each supplementation period. The results demonstrated a statistically significant difference in time to exhaustion (TTE), ventilatory threshold (VT2), and VO2 max between CS and ST (P<0.05), but no significant difference between CS and SB (P>0.05). When compared with baseline, CS and SB improved TTE, VT2, and VO2 max (P<005); whereas, ST did not change (P>0.05). However, there were no significant differences in VT1 (P>0.05). The results indicate that Cordyceps sinensis (CS) may improve tolerance to fatigue in long-distance runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Esporte is the property of Redprint Editora Ltda. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The benefits of using an external focus relative to an internal focus for endurance activities are well documented. However, literature has revealed that internally focused instructions are predominantly adopted in the field, and existing data are limited to highly-skilled level populations. Moreover, athletes' focus of attention during fatigue invoking activities is unknown. The purpose of the current study was to examine what type of feedback and instructions experienced recreational individuals receive and their self-adopted focus of attention when fatigued. Distance runners answered a questionnaire related to instruction and feedback from coaches and thoughts that the athletes experienced while fatigued. The results showed that more than half of the instructions runners received from coaches were internally focused and consisted of both knowledge of performance and knowledge of results. Self-reported focus of runners when fatigued revealed that only 15% of task-related thoughts were externally focused. Despite a large body of motor behavior literature, attentional strategies shown to increase performance and learning were not predominantly present (from coaches or self-adopted) for this population of experienced recreational distance runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a survey to investigate the problem of the health literacy of leisure runners. The survey was conducted in 2016 in Poland among 963 participants of the DOZ Marathon Lodz with PZU [Polish Insurance Company]. A specially developed scale for measuring the participants' level of health literacy (-3, 23 points) was used, and the survey answers were evaluated by medical doctors. As the average score was 3.16, the surveyed population was shown to lack information about the medical and health consequences of running. The people who were relatively better informed were women and younger runners (and additionally single runners and those not active on the labor market). An unexpected finding was that social-class affiliation, educational level, and advancement in running ability had a low degree of influence on the health knowledge of the surveyed runners. The conclusion is that a health-related motivation to train in the sport of running (which was declared to be a key factor in many studies) is grounded in common knowledge, while the majority of leisure runners are unacquainted with the actual risks and benefits of running. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study intended to identify motives for participation in long-distance running races, and how they relate to athletes' perceived health status and expected race time. The purposive sample consisted of 1849 athletes between the ages of 18 and 74. The instruments included the Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire-3 (BREQ-3), the expected outcome of the long-distance runners in the race, and their perceived health status. A mediation analysis was conducted to examine the mediation effect of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation on the athletes' expected outcome and their perceived health. Mediation Model 1 had a significant indirect effect on the expected outcome of the runners and their perceived health status. The opposite was found in Model 2, where there was no significant indirect effect. Psychological and motivational factors were found to have an effect on sports performance. The study identified a mediating effect of intrinsic motivation on the relationship between the expected outcome of the athletes in the race and the perceived health status of long-distance runners. It was not possible to demonstrate that extrinsic motivation had the same effect. The discussion seeks to gain better knowledge of the motivational factors that contribute to the best performance of longdistance runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to observe the effectiveness of intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) on reducing C-reactive protein (CRP) and DOMS after long distance running. Ten distance runners, five males and five females, ages 20-53 years performed two 20-mile runs at 70% VO2 max. Each run was followed by either no treatment (control) or IPC treatment for five consecutive days. For the IPC run, participants were treated for one hour immediately following the run and daily for five more days thereafter. On control runs, participants did not receive any treatment. Serum CRP was measured pre- and post-run, and daily thereafter for five days for both trials. Results indicated no significant difference (p > 0.05) between control and treatment runs in CRP levels. Subjective pain ratings indicated no significant difference in pain between control and treatment runs. In conclusion, there appear to be no substantial benefits of IPC in promoting recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the reproducibility of the 3,000-m run, as well as to understand the strategy used by the runners to complete the run. The subjects consisted of 18 amateur runners (3 females and 15 males). They conducted two test runs of 3,000 m on a 400-meter track at the same time of day. The findings indicate that Test 1 and Test 2 have high agreement and that the results are highly reproducible with small measurement errors (total time for the 3,000 m - TT-3,000-m: ICC = 0.97 and CV = 1.29%; average velocity in 3,000 m - 3,000-mav: ICC = 0.94 and CV = 1.47%; individual anaerobic threshold determined in 3,000 m - IAT: ICC = 0.97 and CV = 0.97%). Likewise, the racing strategy adopted in both times was highly reproducible (average velocity of each km in 3000 m - AV-1st-km: ICC = 0.96 and CV = 0.41%; AV-2nd-km: ICC = 0.96 and CV = 1.83%; AV-3rd-km: ICC = 0.94 and CV = 0.75%). Therefore, it is concluded that both the variables determined in the 3,000 m run on a 400 m track as the race strategy for distance was found to be highly reproducible for the sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International Journal of Exercise Science 12(2): 9-14, 2019. The purpose of this study was to examine heart rate variability (HRV) at rest, and during submaximal (100 bpm) and maximal exercise in collegiate distance runners. We predicted there would be less HRV during exercise. Eight collegiate runners (19-22 yrs) were recruited for participation. The participants were equipped with a standard Lead II EKG to record HRV at rest. The participants then performed an incremental VO2max test while running on a treadmill. EKG was recorded throughout the exercise test and HRV was later calculated during the submaximal and maximal exercise. To assess HRV the standard deviation of R-R intervals (SDNN) was calculated at rest and during submaximal and maximal exercise. A one-way ANOVA was used to determine HRV differences between these three states. The average R-R interval was 0.961 ± 0.155 s (64 bpm), 0.413 ± 0.018 s (146 bpm), and 0.321 ± 0.008 s (187 bpm) for rest, submaximal, and maximal exercise, respectively. There were significant differences in SDNN from rest to submaximal (0.108 ± 0.055 to 0.008 ± 0.002 s, p < 0.05), and from rest to maximal exercise (0.108 ± 0.055 to 0.006 ± 0.002 s, p < 0.05). When comparing HRV between the resting and exercise states it seems that the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) influence at rest contributes to greater HRV, whereas the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) influence during both submaximal and maximal exercise corresponds to a reduced HRV. These effects may be related to the enhanced automaticity effects of norepinephrine acting on its B1 receptor sites in the heart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare and correlate the heart rate deflection point (HRDP) with the ATVDMAX, using the control variables of heart rate (HR) and speed. The subjects consisted of 17 moderately trained runners who underwent a progressive field test to collect AT through the HR and blood lactate. The results indicate that there is agreement between the intensities of the ATVDMAX and HRDP, although there is a significant difference between the variables. Therefore, the safety and practicality of the HR to prescribe training programs is evident. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This systematic review aimed to critically analyze the literature to determine how high-intensity intermittent training (HIIT) affects recreational endurance runners in the short- and long-term. Methods Electronic databases were searched for literature dating from January 2000 to October 2015. The search was conducted using the key words “high-intensity intermittent training” or “high-intensity interval exercise” or “interval running” or “sprint interval training” and “endurance runners” or “long distance runners”. A systematic approach was used to evaluate the 783 articles identified for initial review. Studies were included if they investigated HIIT in recreational endurance runners. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale (for intervention studies) and the modified Downs and Black Quality Index (for cross-sectional studies). Results Twenty-three studies met the inclusionary criteria for review. The results are presented in 2 parts: cross-sectional ( n  = 15) and intervention studies ( n  = 8). In the 15 cross-sectional studies selected, endurance runners performed at least 1 HIIT protocol, and the acute impact on physiological, neuromuscular, metabolic and/or biomechanical variables was assessed. Intervention studies lasted a minimum of 4 weeks, with 10 weeks being the longest intervention period, and included 2 to 4 HIIT sessions per week. Most of these studies combined HIIT sessions with continuous run (CR) sessions; 2 studies' subjects performed HIIT exclusively. Conclusion HIIT-based running plans (2 to 3 HIIT sessions per week, combining HIIT and CR runs) show athletic performance improvements in endurance runners by improving maximal oxygen uptake and running economy along with muscular and metabolic adaptations. To maximize the adaptations to training, both HIIT and CR must be part of training programs for endurance runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to present a descriptive case study with daily monitoring of the internal training load (ITL) according to the heart rate variability (HRV) in an amateur road running athlete. The subject was male (24 yrs old, 67.8 kg, 168 cm, %fat = 13%, 7 yrs of training, 3 times·wk-1 in the last 6 months, 6 to 7 hrs·wk-1) with no history of recent muscle, joint, or bone injury (<6 months). The proposed training was of 12 sessions during 3 wks. The maximum aerobic speed (MAS), threshold HRV (ThHRV), and 1 maximum repetition (1RM) at the pre and post training moments were evaluated. The daily HRV monitoring was carried out according to the natural logarithm of the root mean square differences between adjacent normal R-R intervals (lnRMSSD), mean of the weekly lnRMSSD (lnRMSSDweekly), coefficient of variation of the weekly lnRMSSD (lnRMSSDcv), and division of the lnRMSSD by the R-R interval (lnRMSSD:RR). Improvements in MAS (11.5%), ThHRV (15.0%) and lnRMSSD (45.8%) were verified after 3 wks, and also in the 1RM for the brench press (5.0%), squatting (14.5%), knee extension (5.6%), and hamstring curl (14.8%) exercises. The descriptive values for weeks 1, 2, and 3 for the variables lnRMSSDweekly, ITL, lnRMSSDcv, and lnRMSSD:RR were 3.16, 3.98, and 4.02 ms, 1555, 1950, and 1808 a.u., 7.7, 10.2, and 11.9%, and 3.89, 4.38, and 4.06, respectively. The ITL was smaller in week 1 accompanied by a reduction in lnRMSSDcv. The change in lnRMSSDweekly (1 to 3 = 27%) was related to an improvement in the subject's performance. The individual analysis of the sessions by SWC allowed one to verify recovery periods (>lnRMSSD) and fatigue (lnRMSSD:RR) accompanied by a greater ITL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to verify the relationship between the anaerobic threshold (AT) identified through blood lactate concentrations [Lac] between incremental protocols performed on the treadmill (TE) and the leg press 45° (LP 45°). Twelve male runners were randomized to perform two incremental protocols on TE and LP 45°. The results did not show significant differences in [Lac] between both protocols, and there was agreement between them. Despite the findings between both protocols, further studies are still needed to confirm the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Friction blisters on feet are a common dermatological injury among long-distance runners which can result from repeated shearing of the skin. Previous studies have shown that an increase in moisture level between the sock - skin interface tends to increase the friction and hence the likelihood of blister formation. For the past few decades, many new sock technologies have been developed based on the principle of friction reduction to prevent blisters such as ‘friction-free’ and double layer running socks. However, there have been very few published results on their frictional performance. Five different running sock materials were selected based on the variations of their knit pattern and fibre composition. The frictional behaviour of these sock materials against whole plantar skin was then assessed in dry condition. All tests were conducted using a bespoke rig that was developed at the University of Sheffield for studies on foot friction. 26 subjects were recruited for this purpose and friction was measured for a range of normal loads. Subjects’ feet were kept at their natural level of hydration, monitored at specific intervals using the Corneometer® CM 825 device. It was observed that there was a positive correlation (p<0.05) between foot hydration and friction force. However, no particular trend can be seen in the friction coefficient values between the tested sock types. This suggests that the properties of the subject's foot had more prominent effect on the friction levels than the knit pattern and composition of sock materials under dry contact conditions. Outcomes from this study indicate that the natural variations in the plantar skin and level of moisture present had a more substantial impact on friction behaviour than any changes in knit pattern or sock material, suggesting the control of moisture levels within the shoe environment is a key factor of concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The study analyses sport as the basic contents of leisure in biodromal perspective ad the ascetic lifestyle of an athlete. Ascetic lifestyle is observed not only as it contributes to the best performances, but also to lifelong participation including, for instance, long-distance runners with the stage of minimally 20 years of competition racing. The latter is the centre of our attention. The object of the research is sport as the basic contents of leisure in biodromal perspective. Research aim is to analyse the ascetic lifestyle of an athlete; to map the real role of asceticism in the sports sphere on example of long-distance runners. Methods. We researched a special group of long-distance runners with the stage of minimally 20 years of competition racing (168 athletes). A research questionnaire with this special group was implemented. Descriptive statistical evaluation was performed. Results. We found noticeable ascetic features of lifestyle among long-distance runners with the stage of minimally 20 years of competition racing. They exercise (it is an original meaning of the Greek word askesis) both body and will in lifelong horizon. They know that running (which is higher level of jogging) is also joined with some portion of pain and they are ready to sign a specific runners' motto: "Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional." If the option is "suffering", the situations open the way to peak experiences. Conclusion. Promoting "reasonable asceticism" can be one aspect of raison d'être of today's sport in this postmodern world with the supremacy of hedonistic orientation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in running economy and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) of cross-country runners with cross-training on the PowerCranks™. Seven men and 6 women completed 6 wks of stationary cycle ergometer training using either the PowerCranks™ or the standard cranks (control group). The subjects trained 3 d·wk-1 at 60 rev·min-1 at 3 to 3.5 kg for 30 min, which increased to 40 min after the 3rd wk and 50 min after the 4th wk, with a 48-h minimum between training sessions. Pre-and post-running economy and VO2 max were measured. There were no significant differences in running economy or VO2 max after training in either the control or the PowerCranks™ group. Further, the difference in change scores for running economy between the PowerCranks™ (0.102 ± 0.101 L·min-1) and the control (0.010 ± 0.108 L·min-1) groups was not significant (P=0.15). Cross- training for 6 wks with independent cycle cranks 3 d·wk-1 had no effect on the running economy or VO2 max of highly-trained collegiate distance runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In their roles as coaches, the authors have observed that first-year collegiate distance runners often have difficulty running at prescribed training paces during lactate threshold (LT) training runs. Previous research has validated the accuracy of global positioning system (GPS) devices in providing distance and velocity feedback during running. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of using the Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS watch (Garmin) to reduce deviations from prescribed training paces during LT runs with first-year collegiate runners. Participants were two groups of varsity cross country runners who completed a three-week LT training intervention either with (n = 5) or without (n = 6) a Garmin device. Prescribed training paces were based off an initial time-trial. In both the pre- and post-test runs, in which all runners ran without a Garmin device, differences were calculated between the prescribed pace and actual pace. The comparisons revealed a significant difference between the training groups in the post-test. Those runners who trained with the Garmin device had a significant decrease in pacing variability. This suggests that GPS pacing feedback appears to be an effective tool at improving LT pacing in first-year collegiate distance runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the sport of track and field, runners excel not only due to physiological characteristics but also aspects in running technique. Optimal technique allows runners the perfect the balance between running speed and economy. The ideal movement pattern may vary between events as the goal goes from economy of movement in the long-distance events to speed and power in the sprints. Understanding how each type of runner moves differently will help coaches more effectively train their athletes for each specific running event. This study was conducted to determine if sprinters, middledistance, and long-distance runners would exhibit differences in form while running at the same speeds. Thirty female Division I collegiate runners participated in this study. Runners were separated into categories based on the events for which they were currently training in: 10 sprinters, 10 middle-distance, and 10 long-distance runners. Participants were asked to run twenty-two steps at five selected speeds. Knee angles, ground contact time, center of mass separation, and stride length were measured using a Vicon Nexus motion analysis system. Data was processed using analysis of variance and a Tukey post hoc analysis. Significant differences (p < .05) occurred between long-distance runners and the other two groups (middle-distance and sprinters) for knee range, ground contact time, center of mass separation, and stride length at all five speeds. While running at the same speeds, there are specific characteristics of technique that distinguish long-distance runners from middle-distance and sprinters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distance runners compete in a variety of environments, including hot humid conditions for extended periods of time that can have a negative influence on running performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a Cool Shirt™ worn by male and female distance runners training in a hot, humid environment. Fourteen distance runners (9 males and 5 females) participated in the study. The subjects signed an informed consent form. A parent or guardian signed for all minor participants. All testing was carried out at the Human Performance Laboratory at the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max) was measured using open circuit spirometry. On two separate occasions, the subjects returned to the laboratory to run 85% of the subject's predetermined VO2 max on the treadmill either in a hot humid environment wearing a Cool Shirt™ or in a temperature controlled environment . Heart rate (HR), Borg's Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE), temperature of the auditory canal (Ta), time to exhaustion, and sweat rate were measured. The findings indicate that were no significant differences in HR, RPE, sweat rate, or run to exhaustion time between the Cool Shirt™ run and the control run. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work clarifies problems of the perception of sexual activity by long-distance athletes before physical loading. The group that answered a questionnaire comprised 62 race-walkers and long-distance runners from 6 European countries age of 32 years ± 8 years. Questionnaire was composed of 8 closed questions with extra questions. More than 90% of addressed athletes suppose that having a sex 12 hours before endurance performance does not influence it. Immediately after sexual intercourse 40% of athletes have worse feelings during intensive loading. At the aerobic loading it does not change subjects' feelings or heart rate. Unambiguously we cannot say that having sex before physical loading influences performance positively or negatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), running economy (RE), and ventilatory threshold are three of several factors that determine distance running performance. The present study was undertaken to test multiple measures of running performance in collegiate runners. Fifteen men and women (mean age and VO2max = 19.6 ± 1.5 yr and 61.8 ± 8.8 mL/kg/min, respectively) competitive in Division NAIA cross-country participated in the study. In a single session conducted preseason and repeated twice during the season, body composition, RE, and VO2max/ventilatory threshold were assessed. During exercise, heart rate (HR) and gas exchange data were obtained. At baseline, VO2max in women was equal to 53.7 ± 2.6 mL/kg/min, and 69.1 ± 3.6 mL/kg/min, respectively, in men. At speeds ranging from 6.0 - 7.7 mph, RE in women ranged from 29.9 - 39.7 mL/kg/min; whereas, in men, RE was equal to 37.8 - 46.1 mL/kg/min at speeds from 7.5 - 9.2 mph. With training, only three of nine subjects revealed a meaningful increase in RE, and VO2max was unaltered. At baseline, there was a significant correlation between RE at the highest speed and VO2max (r = 0.69, p<0.01) and run time (r = 0.62, p<0.05). Injuries including shin splints, ankle sprains, stress fractures, and groin pulls occurred in over 50% of athletes in-season, leading to reductions in training and missed competitions. These data indicate 1) a significant, positive relationship between RE and both performance and VO2max, 2) little change in RE or VO2max with training, yet improved performance, and 3) high incidence of injury in distance athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which investigated the effect of lactoferrin intake on anemia in female long distance runners who had a high risk of iron-deficiency anemia. It was conducted on 16 female who were divided in 2 groups including a control group of taking iron and LF group of taking lactoferrin and iron. The observations suggest the possibility that intake of lactoferrin increases the absorption and utilization of iron and would be useful in the prevention of iron deficiency anemia.