Abstract
During an IRONMAN, the pacing strategy in the running
segment differs significantly between sexes. However, it is unknown if sex
affects the running pace in shorter triathlon events. This study compared the
pacing strategy between sexes during a 5-km running test performed following a
20-km cycle (sprint triathlon distances). Participants included 16 men (34.7±7.5
years) and 16 women (39.5±7.7 years). A cardiopulmonary exercise test to measure
maximal oxygen uptake (˙VO2max) and a functional threshold power
(FTP) were performed. Body composition was measured using a dual-emission X-ray
absorptiometry system. Participants cycled at 90% FTP for 20 km and ran as fast
as possible for 5 km. The total time spent cycling 20 km was shorter (~11%) in
male than in female athletes (p<0.001). Similarly, the time spent to run 5 km
was shorter in male (~11%) than in female athletes (p=0.006). Male athletes
performed the last 600 m of the 5km race significantly faster than the initial
meters (p<0.05). Female athletes performed the 5-km race without pace
variation (p>0.05). In conclusion, apart from the sex differences associated
with performance in short-term triathlon events, the pacing strategy was also
different.
Keywords
Sex difference - Pace - Sprint triathlon - Performance