Vision in triathlon: The challenges facing runners

Running is the second most popular sport in the UK, with participation numbers only bettered by swimming. From a practitioner point of view it is often thought of as a low demand visual task, to the extent that low levels of ametropia may not be deemed worthy of correction. This article will hopefully discuss why this is not the case, especially when running is considered as part of a triathlon.

Firstly, it should be noted that a triathlete will already be fatigued when they start running and will thus have to cope with the effects of tiredness and relative dehydration. These effects may have an impact on clarity of vision, particularly in the uncorrected athlete. It is therefore recommended that where possible runners should be corrected to their level of best visual acuity. It is argued that the last thing a tired athlete needs is the potential to develop a headache or to struggle with course judgement or foot placement. Run courses in triathlon can take place on or off road, so the ability to be able to judge terrain via clear vision is a necessity to avoid injury.