Biophysical characterization of the Supertri E effort in competitive triathletes

Abstract

Triathlon is a multisport endurance discipline comprising swimming, cycling, and running performed in sequence. Competitive triathlon events are organized across multiple race formats ranging from short- to long-distance, each imposing distinct biophysical demands on athletes. More recently, new competition structures such as SuperTri E have emerged, introducing repeated high-intensity efforts under controlled indoor conditions. The aim of this dissertation was to explore the trends and gaps of biophysical evaluation in triathlon races. For this purpose, the work was structured as an article-based dissertation, comprising two studies: a systematic review and an experimental study. The systematic review aimed to summarize the available literature on the biophysical assessment of a continuous triathlon effort, whether in isolated segments or full race simulations on various race formats. Most of the included studies showed that the biophysical profile of triathletes in the various race formats is influenced by multiple factors including competitive level, segment-specific demands and sex. Also, the existing literature shows a lack of comprehensive biophysical investigation, particularly in long-distance race formats and in emerging races such as the SuperTri E. So, the experimental study aimed to characterize the biophysical demands of a SuperTri E effort in competitive triathletes. The SuperTri E format appears to induce greater mechanical and physiological fatigue from lap 1 to 2 in swim, and this trend was extended to lap 3 in both cycle and run segments. This highlights the distinct physiological and biomechanical demands of this specific race format that differs from the traditional races of similar duration. Overall, these findings could help coaches to explore new approaches in triathlon training and alert researchers that new studies are needed to support in-field practices.