bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rectal temperature after marathon running.
Authors: Maughan R J , Leiper J B , Thompson J
Published: December 2008

Rectal temperature was measured in 62 male runners who competed in the 1983 Dundee marathon race: all measurements were made immediately after the race. Competitors' times were noted at 5, 10, 15 and 20 miles (8.0, 16.1, 24.1, 32.2 km) and at the finish (26.2 miles, 42.2 km). Mean finishing time of the group was 3 hr 33 min +/- 48 min (mean +/- S.D.; range = 2 hr 17 min-5 hr 11 min). Mean running speed of the group decreased progressively as the distance covered increased. Mean post-race rectal temperature was 38.7 +/- 0.9 degrees C (range 35.6-40.3 degrees C). The post-race temperature was correlated (p less than 0.01) with the time taken to cover the last 6.2 miles (10 km) of the race, but not with the overall finishing time (p greater than 0.05). Only the fastest runners were able to maintain an approximately constant pace throughout the race, whereas the slower runners slowed down progressively. The runners with the highest post-race temperature, although not necessarily the fastest runners, also tended to maintain a steady pace throughout. The runners with the lowest post-race temperature slowed down markedly only over the last 6.2 mile section of the race. The results clearly indicate that runners forced by fatigue or injury to slow down in the latter stages of races held at low ambient temperatures may already be hypothermic or at serious risk of hypothermia.
Lactic acid removal and heart rate frequencies during recovery after strenuous rowing exercise.
Authors: Koutedakis Y , Sharp N C
Published: December 2008

Three tests were conducted to assess the effectiveness of three different intensities of exercise both in reducing blood lactic acid (LA) levels and in influencing subjects' heart rate (HR), following a 2000 m race in a rowing boat. In the first and second tests these variables were investigated during a 13 min recovery exercise at 60% and 40% of the preceding maximum rowing speed respectively. In the third test the subjects had a resting recovery. The results include a significant increase (P less than 0.001) in the rate of lactate removal following the 40% recovery compared with the 60% and resting recoveries. The HRs were significantly lower during the last minute of resting recovery compared with 40% and 60% recoveries (P less than 0.001). The same was true when 40% recovery was compared with 60% recovery (P less than 0.001). The present data suggest firstly that 40% of the maximum rowing speed is an appropriate pace for effective LA removal and secondly that, at least for trained rowers, 86% of their maximum HR can be taken as an indication of work of an intensity at or above anaerobic threshold.
Stride frequency and ventilation at constant carbon dioxide output.
Authors: Berry M J , Bacharach D W , Moritani T
Published: December 2008

To determine the consequences of two different stride frequencies on ventilation (VE) at similar levels of carbon dioxide production (VCO2), eleven male subjects performed two work tests on the treadmill. One test involved walking at a speed of 5 km/hr on a 15% grade while the other consisted of running on the treadmill at 9 km/hr on a 0% grade. Running increased stride frequency by 47%. The running and walking tests resulted in similar VCO2 levels, 1.85 +/- .18 and 1.9 +/- .20 l/min respectively, a non-significant difference. Ventilation during running was 43.73 +/- 6.51 l/min and during walking was 43.26 +/- 6.79 l/min, a non-significant difference. In addition the time constants for oxygen consumption (VCO2), VE and VCO2 were measured. The time constants for VCO2 and VE were not found to differ significantly during either the running or walking test. From our results, it can be seen that VE is more closely aligned to the metabolic state rather than stride frequency. In addition, the coupling of VE and VCO2 during the non-steady state is further indicative that ventilation is linked to the metabolic demands of the body.
Treatment for lateral epicondylitis: variables related to recovery.
Authors: Gerberich S G , Priest J D
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a treatment regime utilised for lateral epicondylitis that is designed to expedite return to activity and to identify variables related to treatment outcomes. Patients treated in a sports medicine clinic between 1978 and 1980 received, by mail, a brief questionnaire investigating the variables of the injuries and level of success of the treatment. Specific techniques ensured confidentiality and validation of information. Through the analyses conducted, an inverse relationship in the total group between the level of success and the duration of pain was documented; for example, the mean durations of pain, 17.3 months, 10.3 months, and 6.3 months correlated, respectively, with the levels of success, 0 (no recovery), 2 (moderate recovery), and 4 (complete recovery). In addition, the application of multiple risk factor analysis, incorporating a maximum of eight variables, identified the degree of pain prior to treatment as the most important predictor of complete recovery; the greater the pain the more likely the complete success of the treatments. The implications of these findings include a need for early case-finding to elicit the most favourable outcomes of the treatment regime studied.
Marathon volleyball: changes after 61 hours play.
Authors: Lund P M
Published: December 2008

A description of symptoms after long-standing physical activity has been the purpose of this study. Twelve healthy, well trained young men who participated in a marathon volleyball game were interviewed and examined 1 day, 1 week and 5 weeks after the game, which lasted 61 hours, 23 mins. During the game, and on the day after, different psychological symptoms appeared. These had all disappeared by the second day. Somatic symptoms were dominated by over-strain injuries to the locomotor system. At the first, second and third examinations the total number of injuries were 29, 26 and 9 respectively. These symptoms were diminishing in spite of continued physical activity and it is suggested that over-strain injuries might be sufficiently treated by moderate activity instead of recommending a period of total cessation from sports activities.
Diet in Training and Competitions
Authors: Ebbetts John
Published: December 2008

The principles underlying the formulation of a diet for young professionals undergoing training for, and taking part in, Competition Golf are dealt with. The composition of the diet and its supplementation are outlined. The literature on the subject is reviewed, and the absence of any really helpful work among so much which is contradictory is pointed out.

The reception of the diet over a three year period and its possible contribution to enhanced performance are discussed. The necessary components of such a diet are deduced in the light of experimental evidence and this experience. The importance of making the diet appetising and yet varying the calorie content to suit the underweight and the overweight individuals is stressed.

The advisability of two diets is indicated; one providing long term nourishment to support heavy training, and the other for use on competition days, when physical requirements demand rapid production of glucose and psychic inhibition prevents complicated digestion, absorption and oxidation.
Responses to arm and leg ergometry.
Authors: Eston R G , Brodie D A
Published: December 2008

Arm (A), leg (L) and combined arm and leg (A + L) ergometry modes were compared at power outputs of 49, 73.5 and 98 W. Selected cardiorespiratory variables and a rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured for 19 males of mean age 25.7 (+/- 5.5) years. Oxygen uptake (VO2), heart rate (HR), minute ventilation and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were all higher (p less than 0.01) in A compared with L and A + L. Gross mechanical efficiency was significantly lower in A (p less than 0.01) than in L or A + L. No differences were observed in any measurements between L and A + L. the correlations between RPE and cardiorespiratory variables were higher for A (RPE:VO2, r = 0.87, p less than 0.01; RPE:HR, r = 0.78 p less than 0.01) than for L and A + L.
Pre-race drop-out from the Glasgow Marathon.
Authors: Fletcher K P , Eadie D
Published: December 2008

A high drop-out rate prior to the running of a Marathon reduces its value as a spectacle and needlessly causes rejection and antagonism amongst potential runners. This research investigates reasons for pre-race drop-out in the 1983 Glasgow Marathon, and finds that a major cause was injury or illness during training, with a motivational difference existing between runners and non-runners.
Combined effects of exercise and restriction of energy intake on moderately obese women.
Authors: Thomas D P , Belko A Z , Mulroy G L , Haas J D , Roe D A
Published: December 2008

The current study was designed to assess the contribution of dietary-induced weight reduction on improvements in functional capacity in moderate obesity. Twelve females (means age = 29 yr, means fat percentage = 37%) served as subjects for the study. Subjects trained on a cycle ergometer 30 min.day-1, six day.wk-1 for three or six weeks at 75 to 85 per cent of maximum heart rate (HR max). Improvements in maximal oxygen uptake (delta VO2 max I.min-1) and functional capacity (delta VO2 max ml.kg-1 min-1) were compared in an attempt to separate out training and dietary effects respectively. Measurements were also taken on both the cycle ergometer and treadmill to test for any specificity of training effects. Changes in body composition were assessed by densitometry. Following three weeks of training, there was an average increase in VO2 max ml.kg-1 min-1 on the cycle ergometer and the treadmill of 14 and 19 per cent respectively. By six weeks, this had increased to 18 and 26 per cent respectively. The contribution of weight reduction to the improvements in functional capacity was calculated to range from 20 to 33 per cent. Thus, both energy restriction and exercise training appear to be effective means of improving functional capacity in moderately obese women.
An holistic approach to recovery from an overuse injury in a games player.
Authors: Nimmo M A , McLean D , Mutrie N , McKenzie S
Published: December 2008

The management of a chronic injury to an international squash player is described. By good physiotherapeutic management and the involvement of an interdisciplinary team it was possible to make gains in the non-playing period. The rehabilitation period included physiological assessment on the basis of which a training programme was devised with target goals set throughout the period. Mental rehearsal of skills was included at all stages. As a result, the player's confidence was maintained and fitness levels improved. The long term prognosis has been good. The model could be applied to any sports injury.
Spinal loading during circuit weight-training and running.
Authors: Leatt P , Reilly T , Troup J G
Published: December 2008

Spinal shrinkage was used as an indicant of loading on the spine in circuit weight-training and running regimes. The loss of stature during two sets of a circuit of weight-training (n = 10), a 6 km run by novices (n = 9) and a 25 km run by trained runners (n = 7) was assessed in male subjects. Shrinkage was not significantly different between the weight-training regime and the 6 km run by novices, mean losses being 5.4 and 3.25 mm respectively. The rate of height loss in the experienced runners was 2.35 mm over 6 km run at 12.2 km.h-1, representing 0.4 mm.km-1 over the 6 km run, this shrinkage rate being continued over the last 19 km run at 14.7 km.h-1. The loss of height could not be predicted from a set of covariates. The magnitude of the circadian variation, mean 14.4 mm, exceeded the change in height during the 25 km run. The diurnal variation conformed to a cosine function, though a better fit was obtained with a power function equation. A marked diurnal pattern was also observed in lumbar extension. Though reversal of spinal shrinkage was observed during a night's sleep, no significant recovery occurred during a 20 min resting period immediately following the exercise regimes. These results have implications for the warm-up and timing of exercise regimes that impose significant loading on the spine.
Stress inoculation training: a case study in gymnastics.
Authors: Mace R , Eastman C , Carroll D
Published: December 2008

A young female gymnast of regional squad potential had ceased to make progress when she resumed training after a series of injuries and was given stress inoculation training to help her to regain her form. Preliminary interviews revealed that she had developed a number of negative self-statements and images which, it was hypothesised, may have been contributing towards her lack of progress. In order to replace these with positive self-statements and images a treatment programme of eight training sessions was implemented. Recorded interviews and subsequent comparison of comments made by the subject before and after the intervention programme, indicated that the training had been successful. This was endorsed by the coaches who reported an improved attitude to training and rapid progress in skill learning.
Increased left ventricular mass in a bodybuilder using anabolic steroids.
Authors: McKillop G , Todd I C , Ballantyne D
Published: December 2008

As the effects of anabolic steroids on left ventricular structure and function are unknown, we carried out clinical examination, 12 lead electrocardiography and echocardiography on a 23 year old male bodybuilder using these drugs. In this subject we found values of ECG voltage criteria, left ventricular-mass, posterior wall and interventricular septal thickness which exceeded those found in normal subjects and also in other competitive, power athletes. Despite these values, however, ejection fraction remained normal. This would suggest that anabolic steroids perhaps have a direct effect on the myocardium, in addition to the effects of training, but whether this is of pathological significance is unclear.
Haematological changes due to triathlon competition.
Authors: Davidson R J , Robertson J D , Maughan R J
Published: December 2008

A twelve parameter blood cell profile has been measured in 6 subjects before and after each phase of triathlon event. This involved 29 miles cycling, 12 miles running and finally 18.5 miles canoeing. There was a significant decrease in plasma volume (8.7% +/- 3.1%, p less than 0.001) following the first phase (cycling); this decrease was sustained to the end of the event. A substantial increase in the number of circulating leukocytes after cycling (84 +/- 58%) and running (255 +/- 83% of pre-event value) was observed. There was no further leucocyte increment after the canoeing stage which may indicate that the circulating concentration of these cells was maximal after running. Fluid shifts following the postural alteration accompanying the different types of exercise and subject variability may have masked any subtle changes in the red cell parameters.
Mechanical jumping power in athletes.
Authors: Kirkendall D T , Street G M
Published: December 2008

The Wingate cycle ergometer test is a widely used test of sustained muscular power. A limitation of the test is the lack of development and retrieval of stored elastic energy due to a lack of an eccentric phase. To measure mechanical power output of the entire stretch-shortening cycle, the test of Bosco et al (1983) was administered to 119 male athletes in 7 different activities during their pre-participation evaluations. The sports tested were indoor soccer, American football and ballet (professionals), outdoor soccer, basketball and wrestling (collegiate) and amateur bobsled. Results showed the overall average power output to be 20.37 W.kg-1 for the 60s reciprocal jumping test. Ballet dancers generated significantly less mechanical power than indoor soccer, basketball and bobsled athletes, while wrestlers generated significantly less power than indoor soccer and basketball athletes (all p less than 0.05). No other between-sport differences were seen. A subset of indoor soccer players (n = 10) were retested after 4 months of training. Power improved from 20.8 to 24.3 W.kg-1 (p less than 0.05). While between sport differences were limited, training differences in one subset of athletes were readily identified.
A longitudinal psycho-physiological study of active and inactive men.
Authors: Reid R M , McGowan I
Published: December 2008

After an interval of ten years, physically active and inactive male university teachers were re-examined across four measures; predicted maximum oxygen uptake, percentage body fat, personality and attitudes towards physical activity. Both groups showed a decrease in predicted oxygen uptake and an increase in body fat although the active subjects continued to possess higher predicted maximum oxygen uptake values and have a lower percentage body fat than the inactive subjects. In general the psychological assessments revealed no major changes but minor shifts in attitudes towards physical activity were noted.
Parachuting injuries: a study of 110,000 sports jumps.
Authors: Ellitsgaard N
Published: December 2008

A study was undertaken to examine the type, location, incidence and mechanism of injury sustained by amateur parachutists in Denmark during a five-year-period. A total of 110,000 parachute jumps resulted in six (0.005%) fatalities and 155 (0.14%) cases, requiring medical treatment. The latter group sustained 176 injuries of which 36.9% were significant soft tissue lesions and 63.1% fractures. Landing is the most dangerous part of the parachuting procedure, causing 83.8% of the accidents, while 9.3% were caused by faults during opening of the parachute. Based on the injury pattern, some modifications to the procedures and equipment are mentioned. A simplification of the parachute landing fall and the development of safer parachutes may reduce the incidence of casualties. An enforcement of the present regulations is necessary as many injuries are the result of noncompliance with regulations due to ignorance, inexperience or carelessness.
Equestrian injuries: a comparison of professional and amateur injuries in Berkshire.
Authors: Whitlock M R , Whitlock J , Johnston B
Published: December 2008

A retrospective study of horse riding injuries in Berkshire was undertaken over a one year period from November 1983. The information was obtained from the Ambulance Service, the Jockey Club and the St. John Ambulance Brigade. There was a total of 103 injured persons with no deaths. Information from the Jockey Club was compared with the other two groups, the former sustaining more limb injuries and the latter more head injuries. A questionnaire was sent to all 42 ambulance patients. Thirty-eight had radiographs taken, 16 of which showed a fracture. Forty-one were wearing some form of hard hat, but if a safety strap was available it was attached in 24 cases. The dangers of riding are highlighted and the importance of adequate protective clothing emphasised.
Sports injuries in women: a one-year prospective follow-up study at an outpatient sports clinic.
Authors: Kannus P , Niittymäki S , Järvinen M
Published: December 2008

A one-year prospective follow-up study of all patients visiting Tampere Research Station of Sports Medicine (TRSSM) was carried out in order to determine the specific features of women's sports injuries compared to those of men. During this period 334 women (31%) and 745 men (69%) visited the station. Women were significantly younger than men and the ten most usual sports events causing the injury differed from those of men. In women acute dislocations, contusions, and fractures were significantly less common in men, while women had more frequent stress-related sports injuries. In both sexes the most common sites of trouble were knee, ankle, and lower back, but in women as opposed to men, the metatarsal area, the toes, and the sole were among the ten most usual sites of the injury. Fourteen women (4%) and 49 men (6%) required operative treatment of the injury. The knee was the most common site of operation in both sexes, in women significantly more frequently than in men.
Exercise-induced changes in urinary water and mineral output during the menstrual cycle.
Authors: Prashad D N , Fletcher P A , Cooper M
Published: December 2008

This study monitors changes in urinary excretion of water and minerals before and after exercise in pre-menopausal women and in those using oral contraception. Resting urine flow rate was lower and sodium output significantly higher (p less than 0.02) during the normal post-menstrual phase than during other phases of the cycle. These changes were unrelated to glomerular filtration rate and might impede maximal performance. After exercise an oliguria and hyponatriuresis were most pronounced during the menstrual phase. In addition the resting urinary output of calcium and magnesium were unrelated to normal oestrogenic and progestegenic cyclic surges. Amongst oral contraceptive users, resting excretion of water, minerals and creatinine were all significantly lower than general menstrual cycle values (p less than 0.01) and further reductions in salts and water output occurred with exercise. Basal calcium and magnesium excretion rates were significantly lower than general menstrual cycle values (p less than 0.05). Renal conservation of water and salts for 'pill' takers may affect renal homeostasis. The consequences of mineral retention are unknown.
Maximal respiratory pressures and pulmonary function in male runners.
Authors: Cordain L , Glisan B J , Latin R W , Tucker A , Stager J M
Published: December 2008

To determine the effects of long term exercise on respiratory muscle strength, maximal inspiratory (Pl max) and expiratory (PE max) pressures, pulmonary volumes and capacities and anthropometric parameters were measured in a group of 101 male runners aged 16 to 58 years. The runners exhibited significantly (p less than 0.05) lower PE max (202 +/- 41 cm H2O and significantly greater residual lung volumes (RV) (2.08 +/- 0.49 L) than predicted values for normal subjects of similar height and age. Forced vital capacities were not different (p greater than 0.05) from values reported for normal non-smoking populations. These data suggest that running may cause a non-pathological increase in RV, perhaps mediated by reductions in expiratory muscle strength. Additionally, current RV regression equations developed for normal subjects may be inappropriate for use in running populations.
Sports-specific fitness testing in squash.
Authors: Steininger K , Wodick R E
Published: December 2008

Maximum oxygen uptake and the running speed at the anaerobic threshold were determined during treadmill running. Performance in these laboratory tests and performance on a squash-specific field test were compared and examined with respect to subjective ratings of squash fitness. The field test was performed in a squash court. Six light bulbs were connected to a programming device causing individual bulbs to light up in a given sequence. The players were instructed to react to the flashes by running towards and striking balloons mounted in the vicinity of the bulbs. By altering the interval between the lighting of the bulbs the intensity of exercise could be varied. The test consisted of a series of 3 min periods of exercise at increasing intensities (increased number of runs per unit of time). The results showed a low correlation (r = 0.52) between treadmill ergometry data and a rank-order list based on an independent, partly subjective estimate of fitness. A higher correlation (r = 0.90) was found for the results of the field test and the rank-order list. Maximum oxygen uptake values and anaerobic threshold values derived from laboratory measurements were thus not sufficient for a valid estimate of competition fitness in these players. The results show that a valid estimate of fitness can be derived from measurements involving exercise closely resembling that which is specific for the sports activity in question. Improved training advice and guidance may result from such studies.
Development of motor abilities of trained Indian boys of 9-16 years of age.
Authors: Singh H , Joon D S , Kooner K
Published: December 2008

A study was conducted on 294 north Indian boys of 9-16 years of age. The boys were studying in a sports school and were doing systematic sports training twice a day. The following tests were conducted on the subjects: Standing broad jump, standing shot put (4 kg), 40 m sprint, zig-zag run, forward bend and reach and endurance run. The results indicated that the spurt in height, weight and motor abilities of Indian boys is less pronounced than in boys of Europe and America.
Injuries sustained in rugby by wearers and non-wearers of mouthguards.
Authors: Blignaut J B , Carstens I L , Lombard C J
Published: December 2008

Previous studies have shown a higher prevalence of head and neck injuries in non-wearers when compared with wearers of mouthguards. The purpose of the present study was to compare the pattern of injuries to those of past studies and also to investigate whether the injuries sustained differed significantly between wearers and non-wearers. A sample of 321 university students participating on 555 player occasions was studied in a cross-sectional survey. No statistically significant differences (p greater than 0.05) were found between wearers and non-wearers of mouthguards with respect to head and neck injuries in general and to oral injuries in particular. We conclude that injuries sustained at rugby in this study were not associated with the use or non-use of mouthguards.
Determinants of five kilometre running performance in active men and women.
Authors: Ramsbottom R , Nute M G , Williams C
Published: December 2008

Previous studies of elite endurance athletes have suggested that success in distance running is attributable to the possession of a high maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max), the utilisation of a large fraction of the VO2 max and to running economy. The purpose of the present study was to examine the relationships between these physiological characteristics and running performance in active but not elite men and women. Maximal oxygen uptake values were 57.6 +/- 6.2 and 46.6 +/- 4.8 ml . kg.-1 min-1 for the men and women respectively (p less than 0.01). Running performance was assessed as a 5 km time trial and the men completed this distance in 19.77 +/- 2.27 min and the women in 24.44 +/- 3.19 min (p less than 0.01). Maximal oxygen uptake showed strong correlations (p less than 0.01) with running performance (men, r = -0.85; women, r = -0.80) but there was only a modest relationship between running economy and performance (men, r = 0.39; women, r = 0.34). The results of the present study suggest that the faster 5 km performance times recorded by the men were best explained by their higher VO2 max values.
Knee pain in sports people--a prospective study.
Authors: Gibson T , Davies J E , Crane J , Henry A N
Published: December 2008

Knee pain caused by sport is a common cause of rheumatic symptoms. Clinical diagnosis is frequently difficult and an attempt was therefore made to determine whether particular symptoms and signs were sufficiently characteristic in 129 patients to enable easier recognition of knee disorders. Strict criteria for arthrography and arthroscopy included classical features of internal derangement or disabling pain. Arthrograms were performed in 39 and arthroscopy in 30, revealing good concordance for meniscal tears but none for cruciate tears. Classical histories and signs were often absent from patients with meniscal and cruciate tears. Patellar pain was a prominent symptom of 58 (45%). Questionnaires one year after assessment were returned by 91 (70%). Many patients had persistent symptoms or were unable to resume their sports. The unreliability of clinical diagnosis suggests that more frequent arthroscopic examinations could have increased the recognition of meniscal and cruciate tears.
The influence of training on endurance and blood lactate concentration during submaximal exercise.
Authors: Mayes R , Hardman A E , Williams C
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of short-term training on maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max) and two different measures of endurance performance. Endurance was determined for 15 female subjects (7 training, 8 control) as (1) exercise time to exhaustion at 80% VO2 max (T80%) and (2) the highest relative exercise intensity tolerable during a 30-minute test (T30 min), before and after a 6-week training period. In addition, VO2 max and the work rate equivalent to a blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol.l-1 (OBLA) were determined. Maximum oxygen uptake increased by 24% (p less than 0.01) for the training group (TG) and 7% (p less than 0.01) for the control group (CG). Cumulative average work rate (CAWR) during T30 min increased by 25% for the TG while there was no change for the CG. No significant difference was found pre- and post-training in the %VO2 max (estimated from CAWR) at which the TG and CG performed T30 min. Exercise time to exhaustion on T80% increased by 347% (p less than 0.01) and 16% (NS) for the TG and the CG respectively. Good correlations were found between VO2 max and CAWR (W) (pre-training r = 0.84; post-training r = 0.83), OBLA (W) and CAWR (W) (pre-training r = 0.89; post-training r = 0.88) and change in endurance time and the change in submaximal blood lactate concentration (r = 0.70, p less than 0.01). The results of this study suggest that the ability to sustain a high relative exercise intensity is not enhanced following short-term training.
Inexpensive probes for the determination of body temperature.
Authors: Gore C J , Withers R T , Woods G F , Day L
Published: December 2008

Two-terminal integrated circuit temperature transducers (Analog Devices' AD 590) were used to fabricate skin and rectal probes for the monitoring of mean body temperature. They are inexpensive, robust, easily constructed and of low mass. The skin sensor system described is capable of being solidly attached regardless of the body contour such that it remains integral throughout profuse sweating and vigorous movement. Both types of probe are stable, accurate to within +/- 0.05 degree C over the physiological range of measurement and exhibit 100% response times of approximately 60 s to a square wave stimulus of 10 degrees C.
Grouping of runners during marathon competition.
Authors: Yamaji K , Shephard R J
Published: December 2008

Marathon runners tend to form clusters during competition, possibly as a means of improving their performance. Studies of international competitors in Fukuoka and Tokyo races have shown a density of 0.44 to 0.80 runners.m2 among those maintaining a pace of 4.8-5.6 m.s-1, clustering being most marked among elite performers. Some 95% of clustered runners maintained a minimum distance of 0.5-1.5 m from other competitors; moreover, such competitors avoided occupying an angle of +/- 15 degrees either before or behind other runners. The phenomenon merits closer study by those interested in the bettering of marathon performance.
Surgical treatment of chronic dislocation of the peroneal tendons.
Authors: Slätis P , Santavirta S , Sandelin J
Published: December 2008

Recent reports on the outcome of sports injuries have pointed out that ankle sprains may cause long term discomfort, this occasionally being due to peroneal tendon dislocation which may become chronic. The present paper reports a method, which includes deepening of the retromalleolar groove and at the same time maintaining the cartilagenous gliding layer. Long term follow-up (2 to 10 years) is presented on four patients. One of the patients returned successfully to international track and road races. In each case, the clinical result after the operation was successful, the ankles showing normal biomechanical functions.
The elite marathon runner: problems during and after competition.
Authors: Hölmich P , Darre E , Jahnsen F , Hartvig-Jensen T
Published: December 2008

Two questionnaires were given to the participants of the Danish national marathon championship to obtain information on health, training habits, previous injuries and the medical problems sustained during and after the competition. All 60 participants replied to both questionnaires. The elite runner is training between 90-150 km per week, using one daily training session. He is generally careful about stretching and warming up and down. Forty-three per cent of runners sustained injuries in the last year that prevented them from training, but only 3% needed to stay off work. The most common reasons for not completing the race were exhaustion and injuries to the lower extremities. Sixty-one per cent of the runners who did not drink at all refreshment stations dropped out, whereas only 27% of those who did dropped out. There was no difference in relation to results or medical problems between the group who used a special diet before the run and those who did not. The major medical problems were gastrointestinal disturbances, skin lesions and pain or cramps in the lower extremities. No serious injuries were reported.
Treadmill protocols for determination of maximum oxygen uptake in runners.
Authors: McConnell T R , Clark B A
Published: December 2008

Four testing protocols were completed by each of 10 runners using a common speed for protocols 1 and 2 (P1 and P2), each runner's training pace for protocol 3 (P3) and a speed selected manually by the runner for protocol 4 (P4). Stages were increased by 2.5% grade every 2 min for each protocol except for P1, which had 1 min stages. There were no significant differences in maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max) between protocols (P1, 65.0 +/- 5.6 ml.kg-1 min-1; P2, 64.5 +/- 5.3 ml.kg-1 min-1; P3, 66.2 +/- 3.9 ml.kg-1 min-1; P4, 64.7 +/- 5.8 ml.kg-1 min-1). Treadmill time was significantly less for P1 than for the other protocols. The rate of perceived exertion obtained at maximal exercise during P1 was less than that obtained during the other three protocols. Heart rate was significantly lower (P less than 0.05) at any level of submaximal VO2 during P3 than during the other protocols. We recommend a testing protocol using speeds approximating the runner's training pace and 1 min stages. This may result in lower perception of difficulty and HR throughout the test and shorter testing times.
Effects of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug on delayed onset muscle soreness and indices of damage.
Authors: Donnelly A E , McCormick K , Maughan R J , Whiting P H , Clarkson P M
Published: December 2008

Twenty untrained male volunteers were required to run downhill for 45 minutes on a motor driven treadmill to induce muscle soreness. The volunteers took diclofenac or placebo before and for 72 hours after two runs 10 weeks apart, in a randomised double blind crossover design. Subjective soreness was assessed before and at intervals up to 72 hours after each run; venous blood samples, collected at the same time intervals, were used to estimate serum activities of creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase and serum concentrations of creatinine and urea. Subjective soreness and the biochemical parameters increased after both runs, although the serum enzyme response to the second run was reduced. Diclofenac had no influence on the serum biochemical response to downhill running. Although overall soreness was not affected by diclofenac, individual soreness measurements were reduced by diclofenac at the first period of the study. These results suggest that diclofenac does not influence muscle damage, but may slightly reduce the associated soreness.
Gastrointestinal disturbances in marathon runners.
Authors: Riddoch C , Trinick T
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this survey was to investigate the prevalence of running-induced gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances in marathon runners. A questionnaire was completed by 471 of the estimated 1,750 competitors in the 1986 Belfast City Marathon. Eighty-three per cent of respondents indicated that they occasionally or frequently suffered one or more GI disturbances during or immediately after running. The urge to have a bowel movement (53%) and diarrhoea (38%) were the most common symptoms, especially among female runners (74% and 68% respectively). Upper GI tract symptoms were experienced more by women than men (p less than 0.05) and more by younger runners than older runners (p less than 0.01). Women also suffered more lower GI tract symptoms than men (p less than 0.05) with younger runners showing a similar trend. Both upper and lower tract symptoms were more common during a "hard" run than an "easy" run (p less than 0.01) and were equally as common both during and after running. Of those runners who suffered GI disturbances, 72% thought that running was the cause and 29% believed their performance to be adversely affected. There was no consensus among sufferers as to the causes of symptoms and a wide variety of "remedies" were suggested. GI disturbances are common amongst long-distance runners and their aetiology is unknown. Medical practitioners should be aware of this when dealing with patients who run.
The risks of injury in public ice skating.
Authors: Radford P J , Williamson D M , Lowdon I M
Published: December 2008

A prospective survey has been made of the injuries to members of the public attending a well established ice rink in a major city. Comparison is made with series in the literature reporting high levels of injuries, with corresponding demands on local hospital services, from newly established ice rinks. The main conclusion is that demands on hospital services have been markedly reduced for the well established rink, with corresponding savings in health service resources.
Activity patterns of men attending for fitness assessment.
Authors: Bland P K , Williams P T
Published: December 2008

This paper describes some fitness and health characteristics of 499 British men in relation to their age and activity levels. The men attended a fitness assessment unit on a voluntary basis and their ages ranged from 20 to 69 years (43.8 +/- 9.1 yr, mean +/- SD). All subjects underwent a complete medical examination prior to carrying out a standardised graded walking or running test on a treadmill. During the test expired air collections were made and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) was predicted from the oxygen uptake and heart rate measurements. All subjects were required to exercise up to 90-95% of their predicted maximum heart rate. Activity levels were assessed from a number of questions put to the patient by the doctor about the amount and type of exercise taken. Only 22% of the sample performed the minimum amount of exercise required to maintain a good functional capacity as recommended by the American College of Sports Medicine. Thirty-nine per cent were sedentary. The activity patterns of the older subjects differed from those of the younger subjects. The older age groups contained more sedentary individuals and fewer moderately active individuals (i.e. those taking exercise only once or twice a week). However the numbers taking regular exercise three or more times a week did not vary from one age group to the next. The mean VO2 max for the sample was 41.9 +/- 9.0 ml.kg 1min-1 and the mean body fat percentage 21.2 +/- 5.6%. The more active groups had higher VO2 max values and lower body fat, body weight and blood pressure values when compared with the less active groups. These differences were independent of age. These observations support the increasing evidence that exercise has a beneficial effect on health.
Injuries in sailboard enthusiasts.
Authors: McCormick D P , Davis A L
Published: December 2008

This study was carried out to determine the rate and types of injuries experienced by boardsailors. Results derive from: (a) a review of hospital medical records for water sports injuries, and (b) a questionnaire-interview of 73 athletes windsurfing on waters in the Galveston area during a hurricane and in moderate and light wind conditions. Windsurfers reported 0.22 injuries per 1,000 participant hours. Seventy-six per cent of athletes reported injuries while boardsailing, but only 15 per cent reported significant injuries. The most common reported injuries included lacerations, jellyfish stings, abrasions, muscle strain, sunburn, contusions, and blisters. A small number of athletes reported ligament sprain, ear infection, knee injury, eye injury, and splinters. The large majority of injuries reported are preventable by wearing protective gear, applying sunscreen, avoiding overpowering winds, and selecting safe sailing areas. Four per cent of water-sport injuries requiring hospitalisation resulted when epileptic water-sports participants had a seizure in or near the water.
The pattern of use of mouthguards in rugby league (a study of the 1986 Australian Rugby League touring team).
Authors: Chapman P J
Published: December 2008

Generally speaking, in contact sports the higher the grade of competition the greater the risk of a player sustaining any type of injury. Therefore it is important to conduct studies periodically of international sporting teams from different countries to detect any changes in regional injury patterns, besides assessing attitudes to the use of available protective equipment. A study of the prevalence of orofacial injuries and use of mouthguards by members of the 1984 Great Britain Rugby League Touring Team has previously been reported (Chapman, 1985a). In order to obtain a suitable basis for comparison of those results, a similar study of the members of the 1986 Australian Rugby League Touring Team to Great Britain was conducted. The most important finding was the much higher usage rate of mouthguards by the Australian footballers when compared with the British figure. Results of the study also support the function of mouthguards in reducing the incidence of orofacial injuries in contact sports.
Cognitions and perceptions of health and exercise.
Authors: Biddle S J , Ashford B
Published: December 2008

The impact of exercise on health is potentially significant yet relatively few people exercise. The paper reports two exploratory, community-based, cross-sectional retrospective surveys which investigated the cognitions of aerobic exercisers and non-exercisers. Specifically, an analysis was undertaken of differences between exercisers and non-exercisers, between males and females, and between those under 40 and those over 40 years of age on health beliefs, exercise cognitions, knowledge and attributions. Results from Study 1 (N = 433) showed clear differences between exercise, age and gender groups on health beliefs, knowledge and attributions with exercisers having a more positive cognitive profile. Non-exercisers, contrary to the Health Belief Model, were characterised by perceptions of vulnerability to general and cardiac ill-health. Study 2 (N = 468) supported these results and also showed that older people had more negative beliefs and worries about exercise than younger people. Discussion of the results centres on the need for further research on the causality and prediction of exercise and other health-related behaviours from cognitive factors.
Soft tissue injury in extreme rock climbers.
Authors: Bollen S R
Published: December 2008

Rock climbing is an increasingly popular sport. Its standards of difficulty have undergone a revolution in the past ten years. Regular training is now almost mandatory for the aspiring climber, but little has been published about the patterns of soft tissue injury to which climbers are susceptible. This paper aims to identify some of the common injuries that may be encountered, some of which do not appear to be associated with other sports.
Cardio-respiratory fitness of young and older active and sedentary men.
Authors: Steinhaus L A , Dustman R E , Ruhling R O , Emmerson R Y , Johnson S C , Shearer D E , Shigeoka J W , Bonekat W H
Published: December 2008

Physiological profiles are described for 30 healthy young (20-31 years) and 30 healthy older (50-62 years) men. Half of the individuals in each group reported that during the previous five years they participated frequently in strenuous physical exercises; the other half reported sedentary lifestyles. A treadmill exercise test was used to determine maximal aerobic power (VO2 max). Heart rate and blood pressure were measured during rest, maximal exercise and recovery. The active older men demonstrated significantly lower resting heart rates, lower resting systolic and diastolic blood pressures, higher VO2 max, lower maximal exercise diastolic blood pressure and lower recovery heart rates than the age-matched sedentary men. Compared with the young sedentary men, the older active men had lower resting heart rates and higher VO2 max, walked longer on the treadmill, had lower recovery heart rates and weighed less. Older active men also had higher VO2 max levels than young sedentary men. In summary, physiological profiles of the older active men more closely resembled profiles of active men who were 30 years younger than those of older sedentary men. These results emphasize the range of benefits associated with exercise.
Achilles tendon rupture in badminton.
Authors: Kaalund S , Lass P , Høgsaa B , Nøhr M
Published: December 2008

The typical badminton player with an Achilles tendon rupture is 36 years old and, despite limbering up, is injured at the rear line in a sudden forward movement. He resumes work within three months and has a slight lack of dorsiflexion in the ankle as the main complication. Most patients resume badminton within one year, but some finish their sports career, mainly due to fear of a new injury. The investigation discusses predisposing factors and prophylactic measures.
Salivary steroids and psychometric parameters in male marathon runners.
Authors: Harris B , Cook N J , Walker R F , Read G F , Riad-Fahmy D
Published: December 2008

Testosterone and cortisol in male marathon runners (n = 11) were determined in saliva samples (n = 28) collected during the three rest days preceding a competitive marathon and in the samples collected at 08.00h on the race day. An Eysenck Personality Inventory was completed on the first rest day and psychological state was assessed on rest days and on the morning of the marathon by completion of visual analogue scales for anxiety, depression, hostility and libido at four times each day. Anxiety, depression and hostility were positively inter-correlated. Extraversion and depression were negatively correlated. At 08.00h on the day of the marathon, anxiety and hostility scores were significantly higher than those on rest days, but depression and libido scores were unchanged. No relationship was found between depression or libido and any hormonal parameter. Race day cortisol correlated negatively with hostility, and changes in cortisol (09.00h) between the race day and the mean rest-day levels correlated with the corresponding changes in anxiety.
Non-elite marathon runners: health, training and injuries.
Authors: Hølmich P , Christensen S W , Darre E , Jahnsen F , Hartvig T
Published: December 2008

A questionnaire was given to all participants of the Wonderful Copenhagen Marathon 1986 regarding demographic information, health, training, previous injuries and methods used to prevent these. A total load of 2158 Danish runners participated and 1426 (68 per cent) replied. Fifty per cent of the runners were training 30-60 km per week and 25 per cent more than 60 km per week. Forty-one per cent were members of running clubs. The runners were equally distributed between all social groups. Most runners were slim (mean BMI 22.3 +/- 1.87 (SD)), healthy, non-smokers who rarely suffered from serious injuries, but 31 per cent had had injuries that prevented them from training during the last year. Nearly all performed stretching exercises and methods to avoid injuries. Fifty per cent of the runners tried to optimize their performance by changing their diet in the days before the run. Seventeen per cent used the classical high carbohydrate diet and 33 per cent other special diets.