Nada, pedala e corre: análise qualitativa das motivações para a prática esportiva de triatletas amadores e profissionais / Nadar, pedalear y correr: análisis cualitativo de las motivaciones para la práctica deportiva de triatletas aficionados y profesionales / Swim, pedals and run: qualitative analysis of motivations for the practice of sports by amateur and professional triathletes

Resumo O Triathlon, composto por natação, ciclismo e corrida, evidenciou um crescimento da sua prática nos últimos anos. Atualmente enfrentamos uma das maiores pandemias mundiais devido ao novo coronavírus, o que afetou diretamente a rotina de treinos e preparação para competições de triatletas. O objetivo desta investigação, sob uma metodologia qualitativa, é compreender quais são os fatores motivacionais para a prática do Triathlon por atletas brasileiros. Os resultados mostram três categorias emergentes: planilhas de treinos, provas e competições e impactos da pandemia de COVID-19. O artigo conclui que triatletas são motivados por razões distintas e traçam íntima relação à prática do Triathlon com suas respectivas trajetórias esportivas.

Resumen El triatlón, compuesto por natación, ciclismo y carrera a pie, ha mostrado un incremento en su práctica en los últimos años. Actualmente nos enfrentamos a una de las pandemias más grandes del mundo debido al nuevo coronavirus, que afectó directamente a la rutina de entrenamiento y preparación para las competencias de los triatletas. El objetivo de esta investigación, bajo una metodología cualitativa, es comprender cuáles son los factores motivacionales para la práctica del Triatlón por parte de los atletas brasileños. Los resultados muestran tres categorías emergentes: hojas de entrenamiento, pruebas y competencias e impactos de la pandemia de COVID-19. El artículo concluye que los triatletas se motivan por diferentes motivos y trazan una íntima relación entre la práctica del Triatlón y sus respectivas trayectorias deportivas.

Abstract Triathlon, composed of swimming, cycling and running, has shown an increase in its practice in the last few years. We are currently facing one of the biggest pandemics in the world due to the new coronavirus, which directly affected the training routine and preparation for triathlon competitions. The objective of this investigation, under a qualitative methodology, is to understand what are the motivational factors for the practice of Triathlon by Brazilian athletes. The results show three emerging categories: workout schedules, tests and competitions and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The article concludes that triathletes are motivated by different reasons and trace an intimate relationship between the practice of Triathlon and their respective sports trajectories.

Impact of increasing age on high-performance Olympic triathletes in male and female: a case report

Abstract Aim: Increasing age is associated with significant changes in athletes' performance; however, it is not yet known how increasing age could influence the performance of triathletes. In this sense, the present study aimed to investigate how the performance of two elite triathletes (HCK and AD), who participated and finished the Olympic Games in Sydney, Athens, Beijing, and London, could change over the years. Methods: This study reports two cases (male and female) with cross-sectional and retrospective characteristics that describe how the increasing age changes the performance of two elite triathletes who participated in four consecutive Olympics (2000, 2004, 2008, and 2012). Pearson correlation test was used to verify the correlation between the performance and age of the triathletes. A value of p < 0.05 was assumed to show statistical significance. Results: The results suggest that both triathletes showed impaired performance at the Summer Games in Athens in 2004. When the two athletes were analyzed together, positive correlations were observed between age and transition 1 (T1; swim-to-cycle) and transition 2 (T2; cycle-to-run). Also, a high correlation was found between T2 and age for HCK but not for AD. The results showed a significant correlation between increasing age and a reduction in running performance for HCK. Conclusion: Although the two triathletes improved overall time throughout the Olympic Games, this improvement did not correlate with age. Thus, the increasing age does not seem to impact these two athletes during the four Olympic events.

Propuesta de test para evaluar la capacidad aeróbica en triatletas juveniles / Proposta de um teste para avaliar a capacidade aeróbica em triatletas juvenis / Test proposal to evaluate the aerobic capacity in youth triathletes

RESUMEN El deporte actual motiva la búsqueda de nuevas soluciones que permitan al atleta responder a altas exigencias físicas dentro de un deporte sostenible. Una solución es la búsqueda de pruebas para el control del rendimiento. El objetivo consistió en proponer un test de campo para la evaluación de la capacidad aeróbica y realizar un triatlón con valores inferiores en cuanto a distancia y duración respecto al triatlón sprint. Este estudio presenta una propuesta de test de campo para la evaluación de la capacidad aeróbica, realizando triatlones con distancias inferiores. La distancia se determinó mediante un estudio práctico de la actividad competitiva. La validación de los test fue aplicado a 12 atletas de la categoría juvenil, con una edad promedio de 16, 3 años (± 1,3). La validez de contenido se comprobó mediante el criterio de 12 especialistas que afirmaron que este representa de manera adecuada la capacidad aeróbica. La confiabilidad y la concordancia se comprobaron mediante la prueba de rangos de Wilcoxon, con una significación asintótica de 0,574. Por el criterio de equivalencia, se monitorizó la prueba mediante la comparación de valores de frecuencia cardíaca del test con los de un triatlón sprint simulado. Para la validez contrastada, se compararon los resultados de los triatletas con los de cinco nadadores, tres ciclistas y dos corredores de fondo. Los tiempos del test fueron inferiores en los triatletas, lo que confirmó que es específico para triatletas.

RESUMO O esporte de hoje motiva a busca de novas soluções que permitam ao atleta atender a altas exigências físicas dentro de um esporte sustentável. Uma solução é a busca de testes de monitoramento de rendimento. O objetivo era propor um teste de campo para a avaliação da capacidade aeróbica e realizar um triatlo com valores mais baixos em termos de distância e duração do que um triatlo de sprint. Este estudo apresenta uma proposta de teste de campo para a avaliação da capacidade aeróbica, realizando triatlos com distâncias mais curtas. A distância foi determinada por um estudo prático da atividade competitiva. A validação dos testes foi aplicada a 12 atletas da categoria jovem, com idade média de 16,3 anos (± 1,3). A validez do conteúdo foi verificada pelos critérios de 12 especialistas que afirmaram que ele representa adequadamente a capacidade aeróbica. A confiabilidade e a concordância foram testadas por Wilcoxon rank test, com um significado assimptótico de 0,574. Para o critério de equivalência, o teste foi monitorado pela comparação dos valores de frequência cardíaca do teste com os de um triatlo de sprint simulado. Para a validade do teste, os resultados dos triatletas foram comparados com os de cinco nadadores, três ciclistas e dois corredores de longa distância. Os tempos de teste foram menores nos triatletas, confirmando que é específico para os triatletas.

ABSTRACTS Today's sport motivates the search for new solutions that allow the athlete to respond to high physical demands within a sustainable sport. One solution is to search for tests for performance monitoring. The aim of this study is to propose a field test for the evaluation of aerobic capacity, carrying out a triathlon with lower values in terms of distance and duration with respect to the sprint triathlon. The study presents a field test proposal for the evaluation of aerobic capacity performing triathlons with shorter distances. The distance was determined through a practical study of competitive activity. In the validation, the test was applied to 12 athletes of the youth category with an average age of 16.3 years (± 1,3). The content validity was verified using the criteria of 12 specialists who stated that it adequately represents the aerobic capacity. Reliability and concordance were checked using the Wilcoxon rank test where asymptotic significance was 0.574. By the equivalence criterion, the test was monitored by comparing heart rate values with those of a simulated sprint triathlon. For the contrasted validity, the results of the triathletes were compared with those of five swimmers, three cyclists and two long-distance runners. The test times were lower in the triathletes, confirming that the test is specific for triathletes.

A idade relativa influencia na pontuação do ranking de triatletas juniores brasileiros? / Does relative age influence the ranking of brazilian junior triathletes?

O efeito da idade relativa (EIR) se refere a diferença na idade cronológica entre os quartis de nascimento dos atletas da mesma faixa etária, que pode beneficiar pessoas nascidas no início do ano. Este fenômeno está claro em diversos esportes coletivos, porem em modalidades individuais os resultados ainda são inconsistentes, principalmente no triathlon. Sendo assim, nos objetivamos analisar se o efeito da idade relativa influencia no ranking brasileiro de triathlon em atletas juniores da categoria 16/17 e 18/19. A amostra do estudo foi composta por triatletas do sexo masculino da categoria 16/17 (N=132) e 18/19 (N=164), que compuseram os rankings dos anos de 2011 a 2019. Para comparação e análise dos dados foi identificado o quartil de cada atleta, assim como, os dados referentes as pontuações do ranking. Para testar o efeito da idade relativa, foi realizado o teste de qui-quadrado (χ2 ). Em seguida testamos a normalidade com o teste de kolmogorov-smirnov. Foi realizado o teste de kruskal wallis para verificar diferenças entre os quartis em relação aos pontos do ranking e adotamos nível de significância de p≤0,05 para todos os testes. Os resultados mostraram não haver diferenças significativa na distribuição no quartil dos atletas em ambas as categorias. Além disso, evidenciamos também que não houve influência desse fenômeno nas pontuações dos rankings. Com isso, podemos concluir que o EIR está ausente em triatletas juniores brasileiros e que este fenômeno não influencia nas pontuações dos rankings.(AU)

The relative age effect (RAE) refers to the difference in chronological age between birth quarters of athletes of the same age group, who may benefit people born at the beginning of the year. This phenomenon is clear in several collective sports, but in individual modalities, the results are still inconsistent, especially in triathlon. Thus, we aim to analyze if the effect of relative age influences the Brazilian triathlon ranking in junior athletes of the category 16/17 and 18/19. The study sample consisted of male triathletes of the 16/17 (N = 132) and 18/19 (N = 164) males, who composed the rankings of the years 2011 to 2019. For comparison and analysis of the data was identified the quartile of each athlete, as well as the data referring to the scores of the ranking. To test the effect of relative age, the chi-square test (χ 2 ) was performed. Then we test normality with the kolmogorov-smirnov test. We performed the kruskal wallis test to verify differences between the quartiles in relation to the ranking points and adopted a significance level of p≤0.05 for all the tests. The results showed that there were no significant differences in the quartile distribution of athletes in both categories. In addition, we also showed that there was no influence of this phenomenon on the rankings scores. With this, we can conclude that the RAE is absent in Brazilian junior triathletes and that this phenomenon does not influence the rankings scores.(AU)

Kinanthropometric assessment of individual, collective and fight sport players from the Spanish national sport technification program / Evaluación cineantropométrica en deportistas individuales, colectivos y de lucha, del programa nacional español de tecnificación deportiva

Nowadays, the study of kinanthropometric parameters is an important tool for both early talent selection and for evaluating the efficacy of a training program. This study aimed to determine the anthropometric characteristics, body composition indicators and somatotype components of individual (athletics, swimming and triathlon), collective (handball and volleyball) and fight (karate and taekwondo) sportsmen and sportswomen from the Valencian Sports Technification Centre. This study involved a total of 62 men and 56 women, they were divided in three subgroups, including individual (athletics, swimming and triathlon), collective (handball and volleyball) and fight (karate and taekwondo) sports. The assessment was carried out according to the one established by the International Society for Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK). For men, the highest value of femur breath, ectomorphy and medial calf and front thigh skinfolds are obtained for triathletes, athletics, volleyball and karate, respectively. The highest values of triceps, biceps and abdominal skinfolds, relaxed arm girth, endomorphy and body fat percentage are shown for taekwondo, while the other highest values are obtained with handball. For women, the highest value of ectomorphy is obtained for athletics. The identified kinanthropometric parameters are useful when comparing between sports and sports subgroups for the selection of subjects and to help in their performance assessment.

En la actualidad, el estudio de los parámetros cineantropométricos es una herramienta importante tanto para la selección temprana del talento como para evaluar la eficacia de un programa de capacitación. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar las características antropométricas, los indicadores de composición corporal y los componentes somatotípicos de deportistas y deportistas individuales (atletismo, natación y triatlón), colectivos (balonmano y voleibol) y de lucha (karate y taekwondo) del Centro Valenciano de Tecnificación Deportiva. Este estudio involucró a un total de 62 hombres y 56 mujeres, se dividieron en tres subgrupos, que incluyen deportes individuales (atletismo, natación y triatlón), colectivos (balonmano y voleibol) y peleas (karate y taekwondo). La evaluación se realizó de acuerdo con la establecida por la Sociedad Internacional para el Avance de la Cineantropometría (ISAK). Para los hombres, el valor más alto de la respiración del fémur, la ectomorfia y los pliegues de la pantorrilla y el muslo frontal se obtienen para triatletas, atletismo, voleibol y karate, respectivamente. Los valores más altos de tríceps, bíceps y pliegues abdominales, circunferencia relajada del brazo, endomorfia y porcentaje de grasa corporal se muestran para el taekwondo, mientras que los otros valores más altos se obtienen con balonmano. Para las mujeres, el mayor valor de la ectomorfía se obtiene para el atletismo. Los parámetros cineantropométricos identificados son útiles cuando se comparan entre deportes y subgrupos deportivos para la selección de sujetos y para ayudar en su evaluación del rendimiento.

Estudio sobre los test utilizados en el triatlón / Study on the tests used in the triathlon

Resumen En el deporte actual, donde las exigencias físicas son cada vez mayores, no puede concebirse una correcta preparación sin un control riguroso de esta. Como medios de control son utilizadas las pruebas o test. Estos deben cumplir ciertas condiciones, dentro de las que se encuentra responder a las características de la actividad competitiva en la que participa el deportista. La condición de especificidad, a la que deben responder los procedimientos de control, constituye una de las más importantes en el momento de la evaluación del rendimiento del triatleta. En esta revisión, se pretendió conocer cómo se cumple dicha condición en los test utilizados en la actualidad para la evaluación del triatleta en la distancia sprint. Del nivel teórico, se utilizó la Inducción y deducción y del nivel empírico, la revisión documental. Los test para su estudio fueron clasificados en pruebas de laboratorio, pruebas de campo y pruebas mixtas. La principal conclusión obtenida es que existe un predominio de las pruebas de laboratorio, los test utilizados se caracterizan por ser parcelados donde se evalúan segmentos de la competencia del triatlonista y no la competencia en sí y, aunque se hacen esfuerzos, aún no se estudia al atleta en condiciones similares a las de competencia.

Abstract In today's sport, where the physical demands are increasing, a correct preparation cannot be conceived without a rigorous control of it. Tests are used as means of control. These must meet certain conditions, within which is to respond to the characteristics of the competitive activity in which the athlete participates. The condition of specificity to which the control procedures must respond is one of the most important at the time of evaluating the triathlete's performance. In this review we tried to know how this condition is fulfilled in the tests currently used for the evaluation of the triathlete in sprint distance. From the theoretical level, the induction and deduction was used, and the documentary review was used empirically. The tests for their study were classified into laboratory tests, field tests and mixed tests. The main conclusion is that there is a predominance of laboratory tests, the tests used are characterized by being parceled where segments of the competition of the triathlete are evaluated and not the competition itself and although efforts are carried out the athlete is not studied in conditions similar to those of competition.

Abrir la caja negra: prácticas de conciliación entre vida familiar y entrenamiento en triatletas / Abrir a caixa preta: práticas de conciliação entre vida familiar e treinamento em triatletas / Opening the black box: strategies to reconcile triathletes' family life and sports practice

El triatlón es un deporte que se ha masificado en los últimos años. Para practicarlo, las personas necesitan invertir dinero y tiempo, lo cual afecta su vida personal y familiar, generando tensiones y conflictos con sus familiares. El objetivo de este estudio, con metodología cualitativa, ha sido comprender las prácticas que atletas, hombres y mujeres, crean para conciliar vida familiar y entrenamiento. Los resultados muestran que existen tres procesos que los triatletas viven al asumir esta práctica: desequilibrio, adaptación y mantención. El artículo concluye expresando que esos procesos pueden traer contribuciones a entrenadores, psicólogos del deporte y gestores, ya que el conocimiento generado permitirá contener, facilitar y promover procesos positivos entre los atletas y sus familias

O triatlo é um esporte que se tornou popular nos últimos anos. Para praticá-lo, as pessoas precisam investir dinheiro e tempo que afetam sua vida pessoal e familiar, gerando tensões e conflitos com seus familiares. O objetivo deste estudo, sob uma metodologia qualitativa, foi compreender as práticas que atletas, homens e mulheres, criam para conciliar vida familiar e treinamento. Os resultados mostram que existem três processos que os triatletas vivem presumindo essa prática: desequilíbrio, adaptação e manutenção. O artigo conclui expressando que esses processos podem contribuir tanto para treinadores, psicólogos esportivos e gestores quanto o conhecimento gerado permitirá conter, facilitar e promover processos positivos entre os atletas e suas famílias

Triathlon is a sport that has become popular in recent years. To practice it, people have to invest money and time, which affects their personal and family lives, creating tensions and conflicts with relatives. Under a qualitative methodology, this study investigates the practices created by male and female athletes to reconcile family life and sports practice. The results show that triathletes undergo three processes: imbalance, adjustment and maintenance. The article closes by expressing that these processes may contribute to coaches, sports psychologists, and managers as much as the knowledge generated allows containing, facilitating and promoting positive processes among athletes and their families

Analysis of acceleration time of ankle in long-distance runners and triathletes / Análise de tempo de aceleração do tornozelo em corredores de longa distância e triatletas

INTRODUCTION: Adequate muscle reaction time is essential for protecting the joints against injuries during sports activities. This phenomenon of time of acceleration has been investigated through methodologies such as trapdoor experiments and electromyography. However, isokinetic analysis is an assessment method that is more dynamic and shows behavior closer to the functionality of the sport. Sports that involve running, such as long distance running and triathlon, have high lower-limb injury rates, particularly in relation to the ankle joint. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare isokinetic acceleration and deceleration times of the dorsiflexor and plantar flexor musculature of the ankle in long-distance runners, triathletes and non-athletic individuals. METHOD: The sample comprised 75 individuals (men aged 18-42 years), divided into three groups: triathlete group, long-distance runner group and control group. The individuals were tested bilaterally on an isokinetic dynamometer. The evaluation modes used were (i) concentric/eccentric for plantar flexion and dorsiflexion, and (ii) eccentric/concentric for plantar flexion and dorsiflexion. We used (a) analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test; (b) Kruskal-Wallis and Müller-Dunn post hoc tsts; (c) Chi-square tests. RESULTS: The acceleration time during concentric contraction was statistically different only between the control group and the long-distance runner group, such that the controls presented faster acceleraton. CONCLUSION: This may signify a deficiency in their motor sensory control during concentric activity of the dorsiflexors.

INTRODUÇÃO: O tempo adequado de reação muscular é essencial para proteger as articulações contra lesões durante atividades esportivas. Este fenômeno de tempo de aceleração tem sido investigado por meio de metodologias como experimentos com trampolim e eletromiografia. No entanto, a análise isocinética é um método de avaliação que é mais dinâmico e mostra comportamento mais próximo da funcionalidade do esporte. Corrida de longa distância e triatlo têm altas taxas de lesão de membros inferiores, particularmente em relação à articulação do tornozelo. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar e comparar os tempos de aceleração e desaceleração isocinética do dorsiflexor e da musculatura flexora plantar do tornozelo em corredores de longa distância, triatletas e indivíduos não atléticos. MÉTODO: A amostra incluiu 75 indivíduos (homens com idade entre 18-42 anos), divididos em três grupos: triatletas, corredores de longa distância e grupo controle. Os indivíduos foram testados bilateralmente em um dinamômetro isocinético. Os modos de avaliação utilizados foram: 1. concêntricos/excêntricos para flexão plantar e dorsiflexão; 2. excêntricos/concêntricos para flexão plantar e dorsiflexão. A análise estatística utilizou análise de variância e teste post hoc de Tukey; Testes post hoc de Kruskal-Wallis e Müller-Dunn e testes Qui-quadrado. RESULTADOS: O tempo de aceleração durante a contração excêntrica foi estatisticamente diferente apenas entre o grupo controle e o grupo corredor de longa distância: os controles apresentaram aceleração mais rápida. CONCLUSÃO: Este resultado pode indicar uma deficiência no controle sensorial do seu motor durante a atividade concêntrica dos dorsiflexores.

Características e monitoramento do tapering no triathlon: uma revisão sistemática / Characteristics and monitoring of tapering in triathlon: a systematic review

O tapering é o momento da periodização em que a carga de treino é reduzida visando à minimização do estresse fisiológico, biomecânico e psicológico, acarretando a otimização da performance. O objetivo foi apresentar e discutir as características e monitoramento do tapering no triathlon. A partir dos critérios de seleção estabelecidos, foram encontrados 7 artigos. As evidências apontam que no tapering para triatletas treinados deve ocorrer redução do volume de treinamento na natação em torno de 41% a 60%, no ciclismo e corrida de 21% a 60%. Deve-se manter a intensidade durante o tapering com a utilização do tipo exponencial de queda rápida, durando de 8 a 14 dias no ciclismo e corrida, bem como, 21 dias na natação. O período pré tapering determina a magnitude dos efeitos do tapering, com expectativa do aumento de performance de 3% na competição...(AU)

Tapering is the time of periodization when training load is reduced in order to lower the physiological, biomechanical and psychological stress thus leading to an improved performance. This paper aims to present and discuss the characteristics and monitoring of taper in triathlon. According to the established search criteria, 7 papers were found. Current evidence show that volume training should be lowered in 41% to 60% for swimming and 21% to 60% for cycling and running in the tapering for trained triathletes. Training intensity must be maintained during rapid exponential fall mode taper. It should last from 8 to 14 days for running and cycling and 21 days for swimming. The pre tapering period determines the magnitude of tapering results, and a 3% performance increase is expected in the competition...(AU)

Efeito do nadar sobre o desempenho do pedal e corrida no triathlon super-sprint / Effect of swimming on the cycling and running performances during the super-sprint triathlon

A influência da sub-disciplina natação sobre o subsequente desempenho ciclismo/corrida parece aumentar com a redução da distância do triathlon. Assim, o objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar o efeito da natação sobre o desempenho do ciclismo e corrida no triathlon super-sprint. Oito triatletas amadores realizaram um teste de triathlon super-sprint, consistindo em nadar 375 m, pedalar 10 km e correr 2,5 km (Tri) e outro no qual deveriam apenas pedalar 10 km e correr 2,5 km (PC). A realização da sub-disciplina natação impactou de forma negativa o subsequente desempenho do ciclismo (-8,4%) e o tempo total (ciclismo + corrida; -5,4%) quando comparados à realização das mesmas sem a presença prévia da natação. Com exceção da corrida no protocolo PC, todas as sub-disciplinas apresentaram significativas correlações com o tempo total (r ≥ 0,84) para ambos os protocolos. Em conclusão, a realização da sub-disciplina natação afeta negativamente o desempenho do pedal e do tempo total (pedal + corrida) durante o triathlon super-sprint.

The influence of the swimming sub-discipline upon the subsequent cycling/running performance seems to increase with the reduction of the triathlon's length. Thus, the purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of swimming upon the cycling and running performance during the super-sprint triathlon. Eight amateur triathletes performed a bout of super-sprint triathlon, consisting of swimming 375 m, cycling 10 km and running 2.5 km (Tri) and another bout consisting of only cycling 10 km and running 2.5 km (CR). Performing the swimming sub-discipline had a negative impact (p < 0.05) in the cycling performance (-8.4%) and total time (cycling + running; -5.4%) when compared to the performance achieved without the swimming sub-discipline. The running performance was not affected. Except running in CR protocol, all the other sub-disciplines presented high and significant correlations with the total time (r ≥ 0.84) for both protocols. In conclusion, performing the swimming sub-discipline has a negative impact in the subsequent cycling and total time (cycling + running) during the super-sprint triathlon.

Cardiac Damage Biomarkers Following a Triathlon in Elite and Non-elite Triathletes

The purpose of the present study was to investigate cardiac damage biomarkers after a triathlon race in elite and non-elite athlete groups. Fifteen healthy men participated in the study. Based on performance, they were divided into elite athlete group (EG: n=7) and non-elite athlete group (NEG: n=8). Participants' blood samples were obtained during four periods: before, immediately, 2 hours and 7 days after finishing the race. creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase-myoglobin (CK-MB), myoglobin, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were significantly increased in both groups immediately after, and 2 hours after finishing the race (p<.05). CK, CK-MB, and myoglobin were completely recovered after 7 days (p<.05). Hematocrit (Hct) was significantly decreased in both groups (p<.05) 7 days after the race. LDH was significantly decreased in the EG (p<.05) only 7 days after the race. Homoglobin (Hb) was significantly decreased in the NEG (p<.05) only 2 hours after the race. Although cardiac troponin T (cTnT) was significantly increased in the EG but not in the NEG 2hours after the race (p<.05), there was no group-by-time interaction. cTnT was completely recovered in both groups 7 days after the race. In conclusion, cardiac damage occurs during a triathlon race and, is greater in elite than in non-elite. However, all cardiac damage markers return to normal range within 1 week.

Comparison of body composition and aerobic and anaerobic performance between competitive cyclists and triathletes / Comparação da composição corporal, desempenho aeróbio e anaeróbio entre ciclistas e triatletas competitivos

The aim of this study was to compare anthropometric characteristics and aerobic and anaerobic fitness between competitive cyclists and triathletes. The sample consisted of 11 cyclists and 12 triathletes with experience in competitions. The tests were performed on two different days, with an interval of 48 h between sessions. On the first day, the athletes were submitted to anthropometric assessment (body mass, height, and skinfold thickness) and a maximal incremental test to determine maximal oxygen uptake, maximum power, maximum heart rate, maximum lactate, and the first (LL1) and second lactate threshold (LL2). The Wingate test was conducted on the second day to determine peak power, average power, and fatigue index. There were significant difference (p < 0.05), with medium effect size (0.80 - 1.5), in mid-thigh skinfold thickness (15.2 ± 6.3 and 10.5 ± 4.8 mm), power at LL1 (195.0 ± 30.9 and 162.7 ± 28.3 W), power at LL2 (247.6 ± 25.0 and 219.7 ± 37.9 W), and fatigue index (47.2 ± 13.0 and 60.1 ± 16.4%) between cyclists and triathletes, respectively. The other variables did not differ between groups. Anthropometric characteristics are similar in triathletes and cyclists. However, cyclists present higher power outputs at the lactate thresholds (LL1 and LL2) and lower fatigue indexes.

O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar as características antropométricas e aptidão aeróbia e anaeróbia entre ciclistas e triatletas competitivos. Participaram do estudo 11 ciclistas e 12 triatletas com experiência em competições esportivas. As avaliações foram realizadas em dois dias distintos, com intervalo de 48 h entre as sessões. No primeiro dia, foram realizados a avaliação antropométrica (massa corporal, estatura e dobras cutâneas) e um teste incremental máximo para determinação do consumo máximo de oxigênio, potência máxima, frequência cardíaca máxima, lactato máximo, primeiro limiar de lactato (LL1) e segundo limiar de lactato (LL2). No segundo dia, foi realizado um teste de Wingate para obter a potência pico, potência média e índice de fadiga. Houve diferença significativa (p < 0,05) e com tamanho de efeito moderado (0,80 - 1,5) para a dobra cutânea da coxa média (15,2 ± 6,3 e 10,5 ± 4,8 mm), potência no LL1 (195,0 ± 30,9 e 162,7 ± 28,3 W), potência no LL2 (247,6 ± 25 e 219,7 ± 37,9 W) e índice de fadiga (47,2 ± 13,0 e 60,1 ± 16,4 %) entre ciclistas e triatletas, respectivamente. As demais variáveis analisadas não diferiram estatisticamente entre os grupos. Os triatletas e ciclistas são semelhantes em relação às características antropométricas. No entanto, ciclistas apresentam maiores valores de potência nos limiares (LL1 e LL2) e menores valores do índice de fadiga.

Dano muscular e perfil imunológico no triatlo ironman Brasil / Muscle damage and immunological profile in the ironman Brazil triathlon

INTRODUÇÃO: O triatlo Ironman se caracteriza por ser uma atividade de longa duração em que alterações orgânicas agudas estão presentes. OBJETIVO: verificar a ocorrência de dano muscular e sua relação com o perfil imunológico em triatletas do Ironman - Brasil. MÉTODOS: A amostra de sangue foi obtida de 21 atletas em três momentos: dois dias antes da prova (pré), imediatamente após a prova (pós) e seis dias após a prova (seis dias pós), em que foram analisadas de forma isolada as variáveis creatinoquinase (CK), os leucócitos totais, linfócitos, subtipos de linfócitos CD4+ e CD8+, e relação CD4+/CD8+ e a correlação da CK como marcador de dano muscular, com as demais variáveis. RESULTADOS: As diferenças significativas foram observadas nos leucócitos pré (média: 6.242,9 mm³; DP: 1.233,3) e pós (média: 18.398,1 mm³; DP: 3.904,0; p < 0,0001); pós (média: 18.398,1 mm³; DP: 3.904,0) e seis dias pós (média: 6.396,4 mm³; DP: 1.299,8; p < 0,0001); CK pré (média: 173,2 U/l; DP: 103,7) e pós (média: 2.339,4 U/l; DP: 1.729,0; p < 0,0001), CK pré (média: 173,2 U/l; DP: 103,7) e seis dias pós (média: 368,1 U/l; DP: 274,4; p < 0,0053); CK pós (média: 2.339,4 U/l; DP: 1.729,0) e seis dias pós (média: 368,1 U/l; DP: 274,4; p < 0,0003); CD4+/CD8+ pré (média: 1,9; DP: 0,8) e seis dias pós (média: 2,4; DP: 1,1: p < 0,00032). CONCLUSÃO: Houve dano muscular no período pós-prova imediato e melhora do perfil imunológico após o sexto dia.

INTRODUCTION: The Ironman triathlon is characterized as an activity of long duration in which acute organic changes are present. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between muscle damage and immune system. METHODS: Blood samples were obtained from 21 athletes at three different times: 2 days before (pre), immediately after (post) and 6 days after the race (6 days post). The creatine kinase (CK), total leukocytes, lymphocytes, lymphocyte subtypes CD4+ and CD8+ variables were independently assessed, as well as the CD4+ / CD8+ ratio. Additionally, the CK correlation as a marker of muscle damage with the others variables was studied. RESULTS: Significant results observed were: leukocytes pre (6,242.9 mm3; SD: 1,233.3) and post (mean: 18,398.1 mm3; SD: 3,904.0; p< 0.0001), post (mean: 18,398.1 mm3; SD: 3,904.0) and 6 days post race (mean: 6,396.4 mm3; SD: 1299.8; p< 0.0001), CK pre (mean: 173.2 U/l; SD: 103.7) and post (2339.4 U/l; SD: 1729.0; p< 0.0001), CK pre (mean: 173.2 U/l; SD: 103.7) and 6 days post (mean: 368.1 U/l; SD: 274.4; p< 0.0053), CK post (mean: 2339.4 U/l; SD: 1729.0) and 6 days post (mean: 368.1 U/l; DP: 274.4; p< 0.0003), CD4+ / CD8+ pre (mean: 1.9; SD: 0.8) and 6 days post (mean: 2.4; SD: 1.1: p<0.00032). CONCLUSION: There was muscle damage immediately after the race and improvement in immune profile on the sixth day after the race.

Comparação das variáveis eletromiográficas e cinemáticas entre uma corrida do "triathlon" e uma corrida prolongada / Comparison of electromyographic and kinematics variables between a triathlon running and a prolonged running

A corrida e o ciclismo realizados com uma mesma duração e intensidade podem apresentar diferentes respostas biomecânicas e metabólicas durante um protocolo de fadiga devido à sobrecarga mecânica e à especificidade técnica de cada modalidade. O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da fadiga proveniente de uma corrida de 10 km, precedida por ciclismo ou corrida, no padrão de passada e no sinal eletromiográfico (EMG). Nove triatletas do sexo masculino com tempo de prática superior a dois anos participaram do estudo. Os testes foram realizados em duas etapas: corrida do "triathlon" (40 km de ciclismo seguidos de 10 km de corrida) e corrida prolongada (corrida com duração igual ao tempo que o atleta levou para percorrer os 40 km de ciclismo, seguidos de mais 10 km de corrida). Uma análise cinemática (frequência e amplitude de passada) e eletromiográfica correspondentes às 10 passadas registradas no 5º km de cada corrida foi realizada. As curvas de EMG foram retificadas e filtradas para cálculo das curvas de RMS. A partir da média das curvas de EMG foram obtidos os valores de pico de RMS para os músculos reto femoral, vasto lateral e bíceps femoral. Maiores valores de frequência de passada e do sinal EMG do músculo bíceps femoral foram obtidos na corrida prolongada quando comparada com a corrida do "triathlon". Esses resultados parecem estar relacionados a maior fadiga proveniente da corrida prolongada devido às maiores exigências mecânicas...

Running and cycling executed with the same duration and intensity may produce different biomechanical and metabolical responses during a fatigue protocol due to the mechanical overload and technical specificity of each modality. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the fatigue effects resultant from a 10 km running, preceded by cycling or running, on the stride pattern and electromyographic (EMG) signal. Nine male triathletes with over two years of experience participated in the study. The tests were carried out in two phases: triathlon running (40 km of cycling followed by 10 km of running) and prolonged running (running with equal duration of time of the 40 km of cycling, followed by more 10 km of running). Kinematic analysis (stride frequency and amplitude) and EMG analysis were performed on ten strides recorded at the 5th km and at the 10th km (final running period). The EMG curves were rectified and filtered prior to the calculation of the RMS curves. From the average of the ten EMG curves, the peak RMS values for the following muscles were obtained: rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, biceps femoris. Higher stride frequency and EMG signals were obtained for biceps femoris muscle on the prolonged compared to the triathlon running. These results seem related to a higher fatigue in the prolonged running due to it's higher mechanical demands...

Isokinetic analysis of ankle and ground reaction forces in runners and triathletes

OBJECTIVE: To analyze and compare the vertical component of ground reaction forces and isokinetic muscle parameters for plantar flexion and dorsiflexion of the ankle between long-distance runners, triathletes, and nonathletes. METHODS: Seventy-five males with a mean age of 30.26 (±6.5) years were divided into three groups: a triathlete group (n=26), a long-distance runner group (n = 23), and a non-athlete control group. The kinetic parameters were measured during running using a force platform, and the isokinetic parameters were measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. RESULTS: The non-athlete control group and the triathlete group exhibited smaller vertical forces, a greater ground contact time, and a greater application of force during maximum vertical acceleration than the long-distance runner group. The total work (180º/s) was greater in eccentric dorsiflexion and concentric plantar flexion for the non-athlete control group and the triathlete group than the long-distance runner group. The peak torque (60º/s) was greater in eccentric plantar flexion and concentric dorsiflexion for the control group than the athlete groups. CONCLUSIONS: The athlete groups exhibited less muscle strength and resistance than the control group, and the triathletes exhibited less impact and better endurance performance than the runners.

Efeito do exercício nas concentrações séricas de creatina cinase em triatletas de ultradistância / Exercise effects on serum levels of creatine kinase in ultra-distance triathletes in the course of a competition period

O triatlo é um esporte de destaque e ampla participação mundial. Incorpora três diferentes modalidades de endurance - natação, ciclismo e corrida - dentro de um único evento. Há uma variedade de distâncias sobre as quais os eventos de triatlo são realizados, sendo a prova de ultradistância (ironman) a mais extensa. Autores diversos já relataram a ocorrência de lesões após esforço intenso, seja diretamente, através de alterações histológicas no sarcômero, ou indiretamente, pela quantificação da concentração de proteínas musculares específicas (biomarcadoras de lesão) no plasma. Entre esses marcadores de lesão muscular destacam-se a mioglobina e a creatina cinase. Efetivamente, a creatina cinase é o indicador bioquímico mais utilizado na literatura como indicador da ocorrência de lesão muscular. Dentro desse contexto justifica-se o objetivo do presente trabalho que visa verificar o efeito do exercício nas concentrações séricas de creatina cinase em triatletas de ultradistância frente a um período de competição. Para tanto, foram avaliados os dados das concentrações séricas de CK de 10 atletas que participaram da prova do Ironman Brasil de 2007. As análises sanguíneas foram realizadas em cinco períodos distintos: 19 dias antes da prova do ironman (CK1), 48 horas antes da prova (CK2), imediatamente após (CK3), cinco dias após (CK4) e 12 dias depois da prova (CK5). Os resultados apontaram aumento significativo nas concentrações de CK nos períodos 3 e 4 em relação aos demais períodos avaliados. Estas alterações evidenciam a influência do exercício exaustivo sobre as concentrações de CK, revelando a possibilidade de desenvolvimento de lesões musculares durante essa competição. Este fato reforça a importância do monitoramento de biomarcadores, como a CK, que permite a treinadores e atletas ajustarem suas cargas de treinamento para aumentar os benefícios do treinamento e para evitar o supertreinamento, melhorando o desempenho, a saúde e a qualidade de vida do atleta.

Triathlon is a popular sport with world wide participation. It combines three different endurance modalities - swimming, cycling and running - within a single event. There is a variety of distances on which triathlon events are made, the Ironman race being the longest. Many authors have already reported injury occurrence after intense exertion, either directly, through histological sarcomere alterations, or indirectly, over the quantification of specific muscle proteins concentration (injury biomarkers) in the plasma. Among these markers of muscle injury, Myoglobin and Creatine Kinase stand out. In fact, creatine kinase is the most used biochemical indicator of muscle injury occurrence. Within this context, it is justified the purpose of this study, that intends to verify exercise effects on serum levels of creatine kinase in ultra-distance triathletes in the course of a competition period. Serum levels of CK from 10 triathletes who competed in the Ironman Brazil event, 2007 were evaluated. Blood analyses were done at five distinct periods: 19 days before Ironman Brazil competition (CK1), 48 hours before it (CK2), immediately after it (CK3), five days after the competition (CK4) and 12 days after the event (CK5). The results showed significant increase on CK concentrations at periods 3 and 4, when compared to the other evaluated periods. These alterations evidence the influence of the Ironman competition exhaustive exercise over the CK concentrations, revealing the possibility of muscle injuries development during the event. This fact enhances the importance of biomarkers' monitoring, like CK, that allow coaches and athletes to adapt training loads to increase their benefits and to avoid overtraining, improving performance, health and quality of life.

The Effect of Press Tack Needle Treatment on Muscle Soreness after Triathlon Race-Placebo-controlled Study- / 全日本鍼灸学会雑誌

[Objective] To examine the effect of press tack needle (PTN) treatment on muscle soreness after triathlon race in a placebo (P) -controlled study.<BR>[Method] Subjects were 149 healthy triathletes randomly divided into 2 groups, PTN group and P group. PTN and P were placed on the L 3 to S 2 dermatome area (BL23, BL24, BL25, BL26 and BL32) only during the race. The visual analog scale (VAS) was used to measure muscle soreness at 6 points (Quads, Hamstrings, Calves, Tibialis anteriors, Glutes and lower back). Measurements were obtained before the race (PRE), after the race (POST1), and on the day after the race (POST2) to evaluate the effect of PTN treatment.<BR>[Results] Each VAS score was increased on POST1 compared to that on PRE (p<0.01) for both groups. With PTN treatment, VAS scores were decreased on POST2 compared to those on POST1 except for Glutes (p<0.01, p<0.05), and had recovered to the PRE-race condition. In the P group, VAS score of the hamstrings was decreased on POST2 compared to that on POST1, while VAS scores were significantly higher than those on PRE for Quad, Hamstrings, and Calves.<BR>[Conclusion] It is suggested that PTN stimulation during triathlon race suppresses delayed-onset muscle sore-ness.

Effects of middle-distance triathlon race on serum biochemical parameters / 体力科学

For the purpose of examining relative impact of the middle-distance triathlon race (Swim : 2.0 km, Bike : 90.0 km, Run : 21.0 km), blood samples were taken on the day before, immediately after, and the day following the race from triathletes who participated in a middle-distance triathlon race at Tokunoshima, Kagoshima in June 1993. White blood cell count was significantly increased immediately after the race.It was recovered on the next day to the value observed before the race. Serum creatine phosphokinase activity was elevated significantly immediately after the competition. It continued to rise up to the level of about 4 times higher than the pre-race value. In terms of renal function, serum creatinine concentration showed a significant increase immediately after the competition. However, it recovered to normal range by the day after the competition. In addition, serum urea nitrogen concentration was also significantly increased after the competition. It remained at the high level until the day after the competition. In conclusion, it might be suggested that the middle-distance triathlon gives a significant impact on human body, even though it is quntitatively less than the long-distance type (Swim : 3.9 km, Bike : 180.2 km, Run : 42.2 km) .

Characteristics of cardiorespiratory responses to the latter stage of a simulated triathlon / 体力科学

The most characteristic feature of the triathlon is integration of the three endurance activities including of swimming, cycling and running, into a continuous task. So, it is necessary to identify the cardiorespiratory responses during the triathlon to develop a beneficial training program. Twelve male triathletes conducted a simulated triathlon test in a laboratory. This test consisted of continuous swimming, cycling and running using a flumepool, a bicycle ergometer and a treadmill, respectively. The exercise intensity and duration were 60% of maximal oxygen uptake during swimming, cycling and running for 30, 75 and 45 min, respectively. The results demonstrated that the residual effects of the prior exercise stage were observed during the latter exercise stage : The prior swimming stage produced an increment of oxygen uptake and heart rate during the cycling stage ; Prior swimming and cycling stages increased oxygen uptake, minute ventilation, heart rate and ventilatory equivalent to those during the running stage. These results suggest that the residual effects of the preceding exercise decreased the mechanical and respiratory efficiency by increasing the physiological demands of conducting the subsequent exercise. Therefore, triathletes are recommended to train themselves in a continuous task rather than separately.

Nutritional intakes in ultraendurance exercise (triathlon) before and during competition / 体力科学

Daily activities and food consumption, for the 2 days before and the day of competition, were investigated in 18 Japanese male triathletes participating in the Ironman Japan Competition at Lake-Biwa in 1991. Energy intakes and the energy intake to expenditure ratio, one and two days before and on race day, were 4005±895 kcal and 151±40%, 5000±1356 kcal and 203±53% and 5170±1799 kcal and 55±27%, respectively. Carbohydrates constituted 62, 4±11.6%, 61.3±7.7% and 76.7±5.6%, respectively, of these meals. Mean vitamin and mineral intakes were highly variable. Total water intake at breakfast and during the events was 7488±3653 ml. Salt intake appeared to be inadequate. Some triathlestes, who consumed only meals (no supplements) or had not stored adequate nutrients prior to the competition, had transiently subnormal nutrient levels during these extremely demanding events.