Research Team Analyzes Hydration Impact at Boston Marathon

A research team from the College of Education and Health Professions at the University of Arkansas conducted a significant study on hydration during the 2024 Boston Marathon. Their findings, published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, explored the effects of hydration on long-distance runners, focusing on kidney and gastrointestinal stress biomarkers. This research provides valuable insights into how the body copes with the stresses of marathon running.

The study, titled “Biomarkers of organ stress and injury following the Boston Marathon,” evaluated participants before and after the race. The research team comprised several experts, including Cory Butts, Brendon McDermott, Zachary McKenna, Abigail Morris, Rose Perez, Shawn Wierick, and Xiujing Zhao. They collaborated with co-authors such as Whitley Atkins, an alumna of the University of Arkansas and current faculty member at the University of New Mexico, and Sarah Gustus, a research project manager at Massachusetts General Hospital.

In discussing the findings, McDermott stated, “Our study is a reflection of the amount of stress the body experiences during a moderately fast marathon.” Notably, the research revealed that renal stress persisted regardless of hydration levels, indicating that while hydration provides some protection, it is not wholly sufficient. Runners are encouraged to adopt effective recovery strategies, as their gastrointestinal and renal systems face significant challenges post-marathon.

McDermott, who has nearly 25 years of experience teaching athletic training and exercise science, leads the Heat and Hydration Optimization (H2O) Lab at the University of Arkansas. His lab focuses on preventive measures and treatments for hydration-related issues. The research team’s findings have also been added to the National Library of Medicine, a prominent biomedical library serving health professionals and the public.

The study gained additional exposure through a health and nutrition newsletter titled “Run Long, Run Healthy,” published by Brady Holmer. The article, “The Crazy Effect a Marathon Has on Your Body,” highlights the practical implications of the research for athletes and enthusiasts alike.

McDermott expressed satisfaction in seeing the research resonate with the public. “Having others read and show interest in our research brings the satisfaction that we need to continue answering scientific questions to help the population,” he remarked. He emphasized the importance of ongoing studies to explore physiological questions surrounding distance running.

Future lab investigations are planned to delve deeper into the physiological effects of long-distance running. McDermott acknowledged the support from the College of Education and Health Professions, stating, “The college has provided funds, administrative support, and moral support behind all the research we do.”

For more detailed insights, refer to the study by Zachary J. McKenna et al, “Biomarkers of organ stress and injury following the Boston Marathon,” published in the Journal of Applied Physiology (2025). The DOI for the study is 10.1152/japplphysiol.00775.2025.