Recommendations on Youth Participation in Ultra-Endurance Running Events: A Consensus Statement

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Pediatric Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Ultra-endurance running (UER) participation is increasing across all age groups, including youth athletes.
• Popular UER distances for youth include 50-km and 100-km events.
• Concerns exist regarding the short- and long-term health consequences of UER for developing athletes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a decision-making framework for the safe participation of youth athletes in UER events.
• To address the need for guidance for parents, coaches, medical professionals, and race directors.
• To provide recommendations until long-term consequence data for UER in youth is available.

Main Methods:

• Development of a decision-making process based on current knowledge and expert consensus.
• Inclusion of age regulations, medical and psychological well-being assessments.
• Consideration of training status and race-specific factors (distance, terrain, climate, medical support, provisions).

Main Results:

• A comprehensive decision-making process is outlined for UER participation in youth.
• The process integrates individual athlete factors with race-specific environmental and logistical considerations.
• Recommendations focus on individualized assessment for safe engagement in UER.

Conclusions:

• The proposed framework supports safe participation of youth in ultra-endurance running.
• Individualized assessment is crucial for mitigating potential risks associated with UER in young athletes.
• This approach aims to balance athletic participation with the health and developmental needs of youth.