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European Journal of Applied Physiology

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01-09-2013 | Original Article

Changes in body composition in triathletes during an Ironman race

Authors: Sandro Manuel Mueller, Elmar Anliker, Patrizia Knechtle, Beat Knechtle, Marco Toigo

Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology | Issue 9/2013

Abstract

Purpose

Triathletes lose body mass during an Ironman triathlon. However, the associated body composition changes remain enigmatic. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate Ironman-induced changes in segmental body composition, using for the first time dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT).

Methods

Before and after an Ironman triathlon, segmental body composition and lower leg tissue mass, areas and densities were assessed using DXA and pQCT, respectively, in eight non-professional male triathletes. In addition, blood and urine samples were collected for the determination of hydration status.

Results

Body mass decreased by 1.9 ± 0.8 kg. This loss was due to 0.4 ± 0.3 and 1.4 ± 0.8 kg decrease in fat and lean mass, respectively (P < 0.01). Calf muscle density was reduced by 1.93 ± 1.04 % (P < 0.01). Hemoglobin, hematocrit, and plasma [K⁺] remained unchanged, while plasma [Na⁺] (P < 0.05), urine specific gravity and plasma and urine osmolality increased (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The loss in lean mass was explained by a decrease in muscle density, as an indicator of glycogen loss, and increases in several indicators for dehydration. The measurement of body composition with DXA and pQCT before and after an Ironman triathlon provided exact values for the loss in fat and lean mass. Consequently, these results yielded more detailed insights into tissue catabolism during ultra-endurance exercise.

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Title: Changes in body composition in triathletes during an Ironman race
Authors: Sandro Manuel Mueller
Elmar Anliker
Patrizia Knechtle
Beat Knechtle
Marco Toigo
Publication date: 01-09-2013
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology / Issue 9/2013
Print ISSN: 1439-6319
Electronic ISSN: 1439-6327
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-013-2670-3

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Changes in body composition in triathletes during an Ironman race

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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