Author(s): SLATER, M., WILLMOTT, A., GORDON, D., Institution: ANGLIA RUSKIN UNIVERSITY, Country: UNITED KINGDOM, Abstract-ID: 1391

INTRODUCTION:
Even pacing is integral to achieving optimal marathon performance and the fastest time, with runners who maintain close-to-even splits considered to possess superior pacing ability [1]. However, research on factors associated with marathon pacing outcome has not been consolidated. This scoping review aimed to (a) identify marathon pacing indices present in the literature, (b) succinctly summarize and disseminate research findings on variables associated with marathon pacing, (c) determine which variables may exhibit the strongest relationships with marathon pacing, and (d) identify any significant gaps in the literature to guide future research. Understanding these aspects is crucial for enhancing both theoretical knowledge and practical applications in marathon pacing.
METHODS:
A systematic search of SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and PUBMED identified relevant studies. Eligibility criteria followed the Joanna Briggs Institute framework, including participants >18 years old, comparing variables with calculated marathon pacing metrics from road races.
RESULTS:
Searches identified 2119 studies; 42 full-texts were analysed, with 20 studies meeting inclusion criteria. These studies unveiled five pacing metric categories: absolute average change in speed, early vs. late segment analysis, pace range, 5 km coefficient of variation, and second vs. first half slowing. Sixteen categories of variable were identified: age, sex, marathon time, gender, previous marathon races, training, marathon time prediction, psychological constructs, physiological measures, muscle breakdown biomarkers, race ranking, halfway time, shorter race personal bests, performance level, environmental conditions, anthropometrics, and carbohydrate consumption. Challenges arose in comparing results due to diverse metrics and analytical methods. Nevertheless, carbohydrate consumption, overall marathon time, performance level, and environmental temperature emerged as factors with the strongest relationships to pacing outcomes.
CONCLUSION:
The literature exhibits bias toward demographic data, neglecting psychological, physiological, nutritional, and strategic factors related to the skill of marathon pacing. Moreover, minimal research focuses on practical applications to aid marathon runners in improving their pacing outcomes. This bias impedes the researchs practical relevance for runners aiming to enhance the skill of pacing. Further exploration into these underrepresented areas is warranted, and future studies should prioritize these aspects, opting for research designs beyond cross-sectional analytical studies whenever possible.
REFERENCES:
[1] Swain P, Biggins J, Gordon D. Marathon pacing ability: Training characteristics and previous experience. Eur J Sport Sci. 2020 Aug;20(7):880-886.