Energy Availability and Its Impact in Elite Triathletes

Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phaseNot listed
Trial typeObservational
Biological sexAll
Age18+
SponsorBispebjerg Hospital

About this trial

This study investigates how energy availability affects performance, injury risk, and training outcomes in elite triathletes. Over two competitive seasons (2026-2027), 40 elite and sub-elite triathletes will be monitored through physiological tests, blood samples, and questionnaires. The goal is to identify markers of low energy availability and understand its impact on health and athletic performance. The study is observational and does not involve experimental treatments. Participants continue their regular training and diet while undergoing periodic assessments.

Eligibility criteria

This trial accepts healthy volunteers

Qualifiers

Age ≥18 years

Healthy individuals

Training ≥15 hours/week in triathlon

Disqualifiers

Smokers

Use of prohibited substances (WADA list) without medical justification

Existing injuries or illnesses that could worsen due to participation

Trial population

Elite triathletes with a weekly training volume of more than 15 hours

Trial design

Design model

Cohort

Time perspective

Prospective

Treatments tested in this trial

Not listed

Trial groups

40 Participants
are grouped into 1 trial group
Group A: Triathletes

Trial outcomes

Primary outcomes

1

T3

Plasma triiodothyronine (T3) levels

Time frame
Two years - from off-season 2025 until in-season 2027

Secondary outcomes

1

RER

Resting energy expenditure by indirect calorimetry

Time frame
Two years - from off-season 2025 until in-season 2027
2

Bone mineral density

Bone mineral density by DXA scanning

Time frame
Two years - from off-season 2025 until in-season 2027
3

Fat free mass

Fat free mass by DXA scanning

Time frame
Two years - from off-season 2025 until in-season 2027
4

Appendicular fat free mass

Appendicular fat free mass by DXA scanning

Time frame
Two years - from off-season 2025 until in-season 2027

Other outcomes

Sponsors and contacts

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