Why women are breaking men's endurance records

Sophie Wood, a New Zealand runner competing as Sophie Grant, recently set a new record by running across the Alps for 29 days, covering over 2,000 kilometers and ascending more than 100,000 meters. Woods completed the route in less than seven days than the previous record holder. This achievement is not unique to women; other female endurance athletes have also shattered men's records in recent years.

These include Rachel Entrekin, Tara Dower, Fiona Kolbinger, and Jasmin Paris. An analysis of over five million results from more than 15,000 ultramarathons found that women's average times approached men's as distances increased. Women tend to possess more fatigue-resistant Type I muscle fibers and rely more on fat as an energy source during endurance activities.

However, men still hold many records, particularly in shorter distances. For Woods, the challenge was not just physical endurance but also managing sleep, nutrition, and pain. She relied on her team for support and decision-making during the grueling event.