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Air Pollution Slows Marathoners: Study Reveals Impact
30 Sep
Summary
- Air pollution significantly increased marathon finishing times.
- Non-elite runners were more affected than elite athletes.
- Nitrogen dioxide levels showed a strong link to slower times.
Recent analysis of over 2.7 million marathon performances reveals a significant link between air pollution and slower race times. Researchers found that elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide on race days added minutes to participants' finishing times, particularly affecting non-elite runners.
For every microgram-per-cubic-metre increase in nitrogen dioxide, finishing times were notably slower. This effect was substantially greater for recreational runners compared to their elite counterparts. While fine particulate matter (PM2.5) was also studied, no significant association with finishing times was found.
Nitrogen dioxide, primarily from burning fossil fuels, has known health implications. The study observed the highest median nitrogen dioxide concentration in London, though levels there have reportedly fallen. Researchers suggest that elite runners may have physiological adaptations that offer some protection, and that regular exercise remains highly beneficial for cardiovascular health.
