Marathon Runners: How do they do it?

Ivanhoe Newswire

(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- The men's marathon Olympic event will take place on August 24th. Many of the eager fans waiting at the finish line are probably wondering how long-distance runners can endure such a strenuous sport. Now, researchers say they may have the answer.

A team of researchers from Madrid, Amsterdam and Wisconsin looked at the heart rates of 211 middle- and long-distance runners who were serious competitors in five to 100 km races. They found the heart rates of runners increased steadily throughout a race, regardless of the length. These results support the belief that athletes are able to manage the stress placed on their bodies and fatigue by anticipating the finish line.

---

---

Surprisingly, the study also revealed that elite runners don't run harder than less-accomplished athletes. Even though their performance varied, their heart rates were very similar, suggesting it is an athlete's physiological ability that allows them to succeed in competitions.

SOURCE: PLoS ONE, published online August 13, 2008

Sign up for a free weekly e-mail on Medical Breakthroughs called First to Know by clicking here.