Profiling Collapsing Half Marathon Runners-Emerging Risk Factors: Results from Gothenburg Half Marathon

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Exercise Physiology
• Psychology of Sport

Background:

• Arrhythmia and heat stroke are critical causes of death in endurance races.
• Runner collapse can mimic benign exercise-associated collapse, masking serious conditions.
• Existing literature identifies several risk factors for collapse during endurance events.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify a perceived risk profile of runners who collapsed during a half marathon.
• To understand the decision-making and coping mechanisms of collapsing runners.
• To explore individual mental characteristics associated with collapse in endurance athletes.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study design.
• Data collected from runners who collapsed and were transported by ambulance during Gothenburg's half marathon (2010-2017).
• Analysis of perceived risk factors and runner decision-making processes.

Main Results:

• Collapsing runners demonstrated an inability to withdraw from the race despite exhaustion.
• Participants experienced pain but struggled to interpret sensations or adjust their behavior.
• Runners showed difficulty in problem-solving and situational assessment during collapse.

Conclusions:

• Collapsing runners may possess a unique mental profile characterized by impaired self-regulation.
• Pre-race health screenings should include mental preparedness assessments.
• Educational initiatives focusing on mental strategies and risk awareness are crucial for preventing severe complications.