PROJEKT
MITTEPROFESSIONAALSETE MEESMARATOONARITE (≥ 45 A) ÜLDINE TERVIS The health of non-professional male marathoners (≥45 yr) Johanna Treier, Ülle Parm, Anna-Liisa Tamm Abstract Benefits of physical activity are well-known, but excessive exercising over a long time period could result in different health disorders and injuries. Finishing a marathon could be considered as an excessive workout and men over the age of 45 are in the risk group. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of non-professional marathoners’ physical condition, medicine usage and the frequency of medical check-ups. The purpose of this study was to assess the health aspects of non-professional male marathoners (≥45yr). The results are based on the questionnaire. Data describes all the study groups (n=136) and compares skiers, cyclists, and runners. Descriptive statistics was used for data analysis, for comparing the groups the t-test or the χ2 test was done. Statistically significant difference was considered at p<0.05. 36% of marathoners were diagnosed with some chronic disease. The most common ones were cardiovascular diseases (11.8%) and sport traumas (8.8%). 27% of participants had the blood pressure value ≥140mmHg at relaxation time. 52.9% had used medication within last year (<10 days to >180 days), most commonly to control blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues. 42.6% of the respondents used irregularly painkillers, including before or during the marathon (6%). 76% assessed the sleep quality as good. Only 27.9% have regular annual health check-ups; 45.6% of the respondents within the last year. In conclusion, more than one third had chronic diseases but it does not influence their participation in marathons. The usage of medication is rather common. Nevertheless, the non-regular health check-ups within the given risk group is worrisome.
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