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Systemic arterial compliance following ultra-marathon
J F Burr1, S S D Bredin, A Phillips
1University of British Columbia, Cardiovascular Physiology and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Physical Activity and Chronic Disease Prevention Unit, Vancouver, Canada. j.burr@physicalactivityline.com
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|January 21, 2012
Summary
Ultra-marathon running temporarily reduces large artery compliance. This study examined vascular effects after extreme endurance exercise, finding acute changes in arterial function post-race.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Growing interest in ultra-endurance events beyond marathon distances.
- Limited understanding of vascular responses to prolonged exercise exceeding multiple hours.
- Previous research focused mainly on cardiac function post-extreme exercise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute effects of ultra-marathon participation on resting systemic arterial compliance.
- To characterize changes in arterial compliance following extreme endurance running.
- To assess vascular adaptations after prolonged, multi-hour racing.
Main Methods:
- Applanation tonometry (HDI CR-2000) used to measure arterial compliance and cardiovascular indices.
- 26 healthy ultra-marathon runners assessed before and after a 120-195 km mountain trail race (20-40 hours duration).
- Systemic arterial compliance (small and large artery) measured at rest.
Main Results:
- No significant change observed in small artery compliance (p=0.65).
- Significant decrease in large artery compliance from baseline (16.1±4.4) to post-race (13.5±3.8 mL/mmHgx10, p=0.003).
- Extreme endurance exercise was associated with acute reductions in large artery compliance.
Conclusions:
- Ultra-marathon participation leads to acute reductions in large artery compliance.
- The time course of these vascular effects requires further investigation.
- Understanding vascular responses is crucial for athletes in extreme endurance events.
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