Fatigue effects of marathon running on neuromuscular performance

Nine experienced endurance runners performed individual marathon runs that involved several tests of neuromuscular performance before, during and after the marathon. The tests were performed with special force platform and dynamometer techniques. The results showed an overall decrease in performance from the marathon. The maximal sprint velocity decreased parabolically during the marathon, reaching the final value of 84% of the pre‐marathon one. Similarly, the other test results after marathon indicated that maximal isometric knee extension torque was 78%, the performance in a special rebound test (drop jump) 84% and the 5‐jump performance 92% of the pre‐marathon values. These reductions were accompanied by alteration in the ground reaction force curves in the sprint and jump tests, suggesting reduced tolerance to stretch load as well as loss in the recoil characteristics of the muscles.