Aging and Running Economy Whats happens?

Aging and Factors Related to Running Economy

Quinn, Timothy J1; Manley, Michelle J1; Aziz, Jason2; Padham, Jamie L3; MacKenzie, Allison M4

Abstract

Quinn, TJ, Manley, MJ, Aziz, J, Padham, JL, and MacKenzie, AM. Aging and factors related to running economy. J Strength Cond Res 25(11): 2971–2979, 2011—

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship that age has on factors affecting running economy (RE) in competitive distance runners. Fifty-one male and female subelite distance runners (Young [Y]: 18–39 years [n = 18]; Master [M]: 40–59 years [n = 22]; and Older [O]: 60–older [n = 11]) were measured for RE, step rate, lactate threshold (LT), V̇O₂max, muscle strength and endurance, flexibility, power, and body composition. An RE test was conducted at 4 different velocities (161, 188, 215, and 241 m·min⁻¹), with subjects running for 5 minutes at each velocity. The steady-state V̇O₂ during the last minute of each stage was recorded and plotted vs. speed, and a regression equation was formulated.

 A 1 × 3 analysis of variance revealed no differences in the slopes of the RE regression lines among age groups (y = 0.1827x − 0.2974; R² = 0.9511 [Y]; y = 0.1988x − 1.0416; R² = 0.9697 [M]; y = 0.1727x + 3.0252; R² = 0.9618 [O]). The V̇O₂max was significantly lower in the O group compared to in the Y and M groups (Y = 64.1 ± 3.2; M = 56.8 ± 2.7; O = 44.4 ± 1.7 mlO₂·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹). The maximal heart rate and velocity @ LT were significantly different among all age groups (Y = 197 ± 4; M = 183 ± 2; O = 170 ± 6 b·min⁻¹ and Y = 289.7 ± 27.0; M = 251.5 ± 32.9; O = 212.3 ± 24.6 m·min⁻¹, respectively). The V̇O₂ @ LT was significantly lower in the O group compared to in the Y and M groups (Y = 50.3 ± 2.0; M = 48.8 ± 2.9; O = 34.9 ± 3.2 mlO₂·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹). The O group was significantly lower than in the Y and M groups in flexibility, power, and upper body strength. Multiple regression analyses showed that strength and power were significantly related to running velocity.

 The results from this cross-sectional analysis suggest that age-related declines in running performance are associated with declines in maximal and submaximal cardiorespiratory variables and declines in strength and power, not because of declines in running economy.

 

Baseball Pitching injuries: Dont forget about the Latissimus Dorsi and Teres Major!

Management and Outcomes of Latissimus Dorsi and Teres Major Injuries in Professional Baseball Pitchers

by Nagda, S. H., Cohen, S. B., Noonan, T. J., Raasch, W. G., Ciccotti, M. G., Yocum, L. A.

Background: Very little data exist on latissimus dorsi (LD) and teres major (TM) injuries in professional baseball pitchers.

Purpose: This review was undertaken to report on the management and outcomes of baseball pitchers with injury to 1 or both of these muscles.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: A retrospective review of 16 professional baseball pitchers diagnosed and treated for an LD and/or TM tear between 2002 and 2008 was performed. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis in all cases. The mean age was 28.1 years. All were treated nonoperatively with rest, rehabilitation, and return to pitching after a throwing program. The injuries included tendon avulsions in 6 athletes and strains in 10. Length of disabled time, return to prior level of pitching, and recurrences were noted.

Results: Fifteen of 16 pitchers (94%) returned to the same or higher level of play. The mean time to throwing was 35.6 days. Mean time to pitching was 61.9 days. Nine of 16 injuries (56%) were season-ending. Mean total time lost for athletes returning the same season was 82.4 days. Two of 16 pitchers (13%) sustained recurrent injuries. Prior shoulder and elbow injuries were noted in 75% (12 of 16).

Conclusion: Injury of the LD and/or TM can occur in pitchers. Nonoperative treatment is successful in allowing a return to high-level pitching.

 
4269 Branch ave 
Temple Hills, Md 20748
301-316-2111