research projects
Below are descriptions of research projects that will be conducted during the South Pole Quest expedition.

Ultra- Multi-Day Ultra Running Endurance Racing Study

University affiliation:
  • University of Washington Rehabilitation, Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine

Purpose of Project:
  • The goal of this project is to study the changes in body composition and physiologic parameters that occur in the body with long distance endurance running in extreme environments. By understanding the changes that occur in the body, we will better understand what it will take to survive in these conditions, while minimizing our impact on the environment.

Scope of Project:
  • The scope of this project involves taking various body measurements of Ray before and after his trek to the South Pole. The measurements will include:
    • Rate of oxygen consumption by his lungs, heart fitness, body fat composition, weight and blood work (sodium levels, hydration status) at the beginning and end of his adventure.
    • Daily heart rate and calorie consumption through the use of a Garmin Forerunner GPS heart rate monitor watch.

Principle Investigator(s): Brian J Krabak MD MBA

For More Information contact:
  • Brian J Krabak, MD MBA
    Clinical Associate Professor
    Rehabilitation, Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine
    Team Consultant, University of Washington
    Seattle Children’s Hospital Sports Medicine
    4245 Roosevelt Way NE
    Box 354740
    Seattle Wa 98105
    Office: 206 616-0372
    bkrabak@u.washington.edu

Aiming for Extraordinary: The Role of Passion in Expeditions

University affiliation:
Purpose of Project:
  • Humans have always been passionate explorers – yet we really don't understand why nor do we understand how humans are able to push themselves to achieve extraordinary goals in harsh conditions. Our goal is to begin to really understand some of these fundamental, human experiences by gathering data during the experience through the use of journals and then having participants help us make sense of the journals through post-expedition interviews. We hope to answer questions like: What is passion and what role does passion play in teamwork?

Scope of Project:
  • The project involves studying multiple expedition teams, all attempting world-record or world-first goals in the disciplines of running, skiing, and climbing. The I2P South Pole Quest team is one of the groups being studied.

Principle Investigator(s):
For More Information contact:
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