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Downhill Running-Induced Muscle Damage in Trail Runners: An Exploratory Study Regarding Training Background and
Ignacio Martinez-Navarro1, Juan Vicente-Mampel2, Raul López-Grueso3
1Physical Education and Sports Department, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain.
Sports (Basel, Switzerland)
|January 27, 2026
Summary
Downhill running increases muscle damage biomarkers in trail runners. However, regular downhill training and specific gait patterns may mitigate muscle damage and strength loss, potentially indicating readiness for ultra-endurance events.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Downhill running (DR) is a key component of ultra-trail races, often leading to muscle damage and strength loss.
- Understanding the factors influencing DR-induced muscle damage is crucial for athlete preparation and performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of a single DR bout on muscle damage biomarkers.
- To investigate the influence of training background and gait kinematics on DR-induced muscle damage and strength loss.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-six experienced trail runners performed a 5 km DR bout.
- Muscle damage biomarkers (creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, myoglobin) and isometric strength were measured before and after DR and an ultra-trail race.
- Gait parameters were recorded during the DR bout.
Main Results:
- All muscle damage biomarkers significantly increased post-DR.
- Athletes with regular downhill training exhibited lower creatine kinase levels and better squat strength retention.
- Specific gait parameters, like vertical oscillation and step length, were inversely correlated with strength retention.
Conclusions:
- Lactate dehydrogenase response to DR may predict an athlete's capacity to handle ultra-trail muscle damage.
- Consistent downhill interval training and optimized gait mechanics can attenuate strength loss and muscle damage from DR.
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