Thoroughbreds are horses bred in early 18th-century England specifically for racing, honed to be the fastest in the world. These thoroughbreds deliver spectacular performances at the racetrack. Thoroughbreds are inherently bred for short distances. In human track and field sprinters, the ratio of fast-twitch to slow-twitch muscle fibers are approximately 70% and 30% respectively. Incidentally, while slow-twitch muscle fibers are weaker, they allow for sustained exercise. For long-distance runners, the ratio shifts significantly to 30% fast-twitch and 70% slow-twitch. In thoroughbreds, however, the ratio is 87% fast-twitch and 17% slow-twitch. This clearly demonstrates their aptitude for short distances and their lack of long-distance potential. The role of trainers and stable staff is to train these thoroughbreds to compete in races like the 2400m Derby or the 3000m Kikuka Sho.
To transform a horse with short-distance potential into one capable of long-distance running, specific training is necessary. In human terms, this would involve interval training or altitude training. For example, altitude training involves training in a low-oxygen environment with a certain level of exertion. The training is deliberately conducted in an environment with less oxygen and a higher rate of fatigue than at sea level. The lifespan of red blood cells, which contain hemoglobin, is approximately 120 days. At high altitudes, these red blood cells break down more quickly, and then regenerate more quickly. The body attempts to regenerate more red blood cells than before. Generally, it was believed that altitude training would not show results unless it was continued for more than three weeks. However, recent findings on altitude training have resolved this question. The view is now that it is possible to build endurance and power even with just a few days at high altitude. Training in a low-oxygen environment activates the activity of mitochondria in the body. This type of training improves muscle function when returning to sea level.
Recent research has revealed that top athletes have specific types of bacteria in their gut. This latest study has also shown that the gut microbiota differs depending on the sport. For example, when long-distance runners are unwell and their performance declines, changes are observed in their gut microbiota. In long-distance runners, when their health deteriorates, the levels of butyrate-producing bacteria and bifidobacteria decrease. Intense exercise like rugby puts a particular strain on the body and can temporarily lead to a weakened immune system. Rugby players seem to have a gut microbiota that helps to quickly restore this immunity. With the cooperation of athletes participating in the Boston Marathon, stool samples were collected before and after the race. When bacteria from the guts of top athletes were transplanted into the guts of mice, the mice’s athletic performance improved. If gut bacteria specific to top racehorses are discovered, utilizing these bacteria may become a future challenge.
