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Thermoregulation in marathon competition at low ambient temperature
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|February 1, 1985
Summary
Marathon runners in cool conditions may face hypothermia, not heat illness. Post-race body temperature was linked to race pace, suggesting core cooling is a concern for endurance athletes.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Exercise Physiology
- Environmental Physiology
Background:
- Marathon running involves significant physiological stress.
- Understanding thermoregulation during endurance events is crucial for athlete safety.
- Previous research often focused on heat-related illnesses in runners.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the thermoregulatory responses of marathon runners in cool weather conditions.
- To determine the incidence of hypothermia and hyperthermia in this population.
- To explore correlations between physiological parameters and race performance.
Main Methods:
- Rectal temperature, body weight, and blood samples were measured in 59 marathon runners.
- Fluid intake (water or glucose/electrolyte drink) was recorded.
- Data were analyzed for correlations with finishing times and race segments.
Main Results:
- Mean post-race rectal temperature was 38.3°C, with a wide range (35.6°C–39.8°C).
- Net weight loss averaged 2.02 kg (2.9% of body weight).
- Post-race temperature correlated significantly with the time to complete the second half of the race (P<0.01).
Conclusions:
- Hypothermia, rather than hyperthermia, may be a significant concern for marathon runners in cool environments.
- Thermoregulatory challenges exist even in moderate temperatures.
- Further research is needed to understand and mitigate risks of core body temperature dysregulation in endurance athletes.