Can Non-Conventional Blood Biomarkers Improve Running Performance Prediction? A Proof of Concept

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Biochemistry
• Sports Science

Background:

• Maximal oxygen uptake (V˙O₂max) is a standard measure of endurance, but it doesn't fully represent performance.
• Blood-based biomarkers may offer additional insights into physiological responses to exercise and performance prediction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if a 2.4 km Cooper test alters specific blood biomarkers (decorin, hypoxanthine, NT-proBNP, BDNF).
• To assess if these biomarkers improve endurance performance prediction in recreational runners.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-three runners completed a 2.4 km Cooper test with blood samples taken pre- and post-exercise.
• Statistical analyses included non-parametric tests and Spearman correlations.
• Ridge regression with cross-validation predicted 10 km race time using biomarker data and conventional predictors.

Main Results:

• The Cooper test significantly changed decorin, hypoxanthine, and BDNF levels (p < 0.001).
• Higher post-test decorin and hypoxanthine correlated with faster Cooper test times (p < 0.05).
• Adding post-test decorin to predictors slightly reduced 10 km race time prediction error.

Conclusions:

• The 2.4 km Cooper test induces measurable changes in key blood biomarkers.
• Decorin may offer complementary information for predicting endurance performance in recreational runners.
• Further validation is needed to confirm practical applications for these biomarkers.