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article 2025 15 pages

Skeletal muscle elastic modulus in marathon distance runners

Brad J. Winn, Derek J. Haight, D. S. Blaise Williams 3rd, Brett S. Kirby

Journal
European Journal of Applied Physiology
DOI
10.1007/s00421-025-05708-2
Publication type
Original Research
Study type
observational cross-sectional study
Population
marathon distance runners
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Abstract

Skeletal muscle shear elastic modulus is a non-invasive surrogate for early detection of muscle damage and soreness consequent to unaccustomed eccentric muscle work. We investigated the influence of marathon distance running on skeletal muscle shear elastic modulus. Shear modulus of the rectus femoris was measured via ultrasound shear wave elastography in 80 participants (30 female, 50 male) before and after running a World Marathon Major. Experience level, muscle soreness and run readiness were surveyed. Pre-marathon shear elastic modulus was lower in competitive vs recreational runners (13.0 ± 4.6 vs 15.6 ± 5.6 kPa; P = 0.0014), lower for fastest vs slowest finish times (11.6 ± 3.0 vs 16.9 ± 6.5 kPa; P =  

Description

The study investigates the influence of marathon running on skeletal muscle shear elastic modulus.