Fat Dog 100 Trail Race Research Study

Runners and Pacers competing in the Fat Dog 100 Trail Race (who will complete a distance of at least 50 km) are invited to participate in this innovative research study. This investigation is examining the effects of prolonged/ultra-endurance exercise on the function of your heart and blood vessels, and the control of your blood pressure. All testing will be non-invasive and will include the assessment of the function (echocardiography with an ultrasound) and rhythm (electrocardiography, ECG) of your heart. We will also assess how your blood vessels and blood pressure responds to prolonged exercise. At each testing period (before and after the event) the testing procedures will require approximately 30 min of your time.

The benefits of participating in this research study include:

• A personalized Cardiovascular assessment of heart rate and blood pressure control


• A personalized heart function and blood vessel assessment evaluated using ultrasound technology


• If any abnormalities in heart function and or blood vessels are identified, you will be refereed to seek further medical investigation

Your confidentiality will be respected. No information disclosing your identity will be released or published without your specific consent to the disclosure. Participants will be free to withdraw from the study at any time without penalty.

The Cardiovascular Rehabilitation and Physiology research team have been involved in ultra-endurance research for several years. Our team has participated in the Western States Endurance Run (WS 100) from 2007-2009 in addition to the Race Across America (RAAM). We have published many key articles in leading journals around the world, including over 60 articles on high performance athletes.

If you are interested in participating or would like further information regarding this research study, please contact:
Research Director, Dr. Darren Warburton, fatdog100study@gmail.com or call us on +1 (604) 822-1337.