Average heart rate recovery in marathon runners: An observational study

INTRODUCTION: Marathon is a long-distance race which causes enormous physical challenges to the body. The fitness status of the runner should be checked to overcome these challenges. However, it can be assessed using an easy diagnostic method of heart rate recovery (HRR) as it is inexpensive and readily accessible. Regular monitoring and documentation of the HRR can guide a runner in his training and health status.AIM: This study was done to check the average HRR postimmediately and after 2 min of race using radial palpatory method.METHODOLOGY: The present study was a cross-sectional, observational study conducted in Belagavi city. The participants of all genders aged 18 years and above were enrolled in the study. The sample size was open ended. Heart rate was assessed using radial palpatory method before and after the marathon running.RESULTS: At the end of marathon running, the pulse rate had rapidly increased with a mean of 129.40 ± 9.79. After 2 min of postrunning, there was a significant drop in the pulse rate of mean 106.32 ± 11.53. A drop of 23.08 ± 8.63 beats was seen when compared to postimmediate and after 2-min pulse rate. When the heart rate was compared between the prepulse and after 2 min, there was a mean difference of 33.66 beats.CONCLUSIONS: The study concluded that HRR after 2 min of the run was about 23.08 ± 8.63, but it was observed that the heart rate did not go to its pretest value.