When it comes to strengtheni
ng bones, running has it over cycling, according to researchers at the Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi in Milan. Science Daily reports that the scientists measured two vital bone constituents as well as hormones associated with energy regulation in two groups of athletes: endurance cyclists and marathon runners. Here’s where it gets complicated: the researchers found that ultramarathon runners had higher levels of glucagon (indicating a greater demand for energy) and lower levels of leptin and insulin when finishing the race. The falling levels of insulin were linked to similarly falling levels of both osteocalcin and P1NP ( related to bone health)– suggesting that athletes may be diverting energy from bone formation to power the high-energy demands of their metabolism. But wait. The ultramarathon runners had higher P1NP levels at rest compared to controls, suggesting that they may divert energy from bones during racing but have a net gain in bone health in the long-term. Confused? Here’s a quote from Giovanni Lombardi, lead author of the study: “The every-day man and woman need to exercise moderately to maintain health. However, our findings suggest that those at risk of weaker bones might want to take up running rather than swimming or cycling.”
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