Physiological Profiles of Two Champion Ultramarathoners

Abstract

In brief: Two ultramarathon world-record holders were studied immediately after a 50-mile race and in a laboratory under controlled conditions. Blood samples were obtained before and after running and were analyzed for lactate, glucose, glycerol, and free fatty acid. Muscle biopsies were also performed and analyzed for glycogen, enzyme activity, and fiber type. Results showed that although these runners are fit their physiological data are not extreme or unique and are similar to data obtained from marathoners.