For citation:
Каmyschny V. A. Factors influencing successful performance in trail running competitions. Physical Education and University Sport, 2026, vol. 5, iss. 1, pp. 80-85. DOI: 10.18500/2782-4594-2026-5-1-80-85, EDN: UJDKKV
Factors influencing successful performance in trail running competitions
There are many studies examining the successful finishing of athletes in ultra-long trail running races. However, they do not consider the relationship between various events along the course and the specific conditions of the terrain where the competition takes place. The purpose of this article is to characterise the competitive activity of a trail runner depending on the topography of the terrain. The study puts forward a hypothesis that there is a relationship between the topographic characteristics of individual sections of the course and the runner’s activity. Methods: survey of race participants using a map to analyse their condition during the race. Participants: ten male runners who dropped out of the 65 km Dagestan Wild Trail 2023 race. The results showed that there is a relationship between the runner’s activity states on the course and the race topography. Important information has been obtained indicating that ultra-trail runners manage their performance during races based on the competition conditions, particularly their topography. The study’s findings will help to recommend potential training adjustments for ultra-trail runners.
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