Kinetic changes during a six-week minimal footwear and gait-retraining intervention in runners

An evaluation of a six-week Combined minimal footwear transition and gait-retraining combination vs. gait retraining only on impact characteristics and leg stiffness. Twenty-four trained male runners were randomly assigned to either (1) Minimalist footwear transition Combined with gait-retraining over a six-week period (“Combined” group; n = 12) examined in both footwear, or (2) a gait-retraining group only with no minimalist footwear exposure (“Control”; n = 12). Participants were assessed for loading rate, impact peak, vertical, knee and ankle stiffness, and foot-strike using 3D and kinetic analysis. Loading rate was significantly higher in the Combined group in minimal shoes in pre-tests compared to a Control (P ≤ 0.001), reduced significantly in the Combined group over time (P ≤ 0.001), and was not different to the Control group in post-tests (P = 0.16). The impact peak (P = 0.056) and ankle stiffness reduced in both groups (P = 0.006). Loading rate and vertical stiffness was higher in minimalist footwear than conventional running shoes both pre (P ≤ 0.001) and post (P = 0.046) the intervention. There has a higher tendency to non-rearfoot strike in both interventions, but more acute changes in the minimalist footwear. A Combined intervention can potentially reduce impact variables. However, higher loading rate initially in minimalist footwear may increase the risk of injury in this condition.     

黑龙江省少年中跑运动员身体形态选材研究

以黑龙江省少年中跑运动员为对象，对中跑运动员身体形态选材进行研究。通过查阅大量文献资料，并对黑龙江优秀少年中跑运动员进行身体形态方面的测试后，得出黑龙江省优秀少年中跑运动员身体形态模型，运用SPSS软件对各项指标的测试结果与中跑成绩的相关性进行统计，确定了中跑运动员身体形态选票的关键指标。本文旨在进一步推进黑龙江优秀项目的发展，也为其他地区体育工作者的选票研究提供一些参考资料。     

Dissociation between running economy and running performance in elite Kenyan distance runners

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between running economy (RE) and performance in a homogenous group of competitive Kenyan distance runners. Maximal aerobic capacity (VO_2max) (68.8 ± 3.8 ml?kg^?1?min^?1) was determined on a motorised treadmill in 32 Kenyan (25.3 ± 5.0 years; IAAF performance score: 993 ± 77 p) distance runners. Leg anthropometry was assessed and moment arm of the Achilles tendon determined. While Achilles moment arm was associated with better RE (r² = 0.30, P = 0.003) and upper leg length, total leg length and total leg length to body height ratio were correlated with running performance (r = 0.42, P = 0.025; r = 0.40, P = 0.030 and r = 0.38, P = 0.043, respectively), RE and maximal time on treadmill (t_max) were not associated with running performance (r = ?0.01, P = 0.965; r = 0.27; P = 0.189, respectively) in competitive Kenyan distance runners. The dissociation between RE and running performance in this homogenous group of runners would suggest that RE can be compensated by other factors to maintain high performance levels and is in line with the idea that RE is only one of many factors explaining elite running performance.     

Effect of downhill running grade on lower extremity loading in female distance runners

ABSTRACT

Hill running is often used as a foundational training mechanism to build strength and speed. Distance runners in particular are at an increased likelihood of encountering steep hills during training runs. There is limited research regarding downhill running, and there is no research available on the biomechanics of females specifically during downhill running. The purpose of this study was to quantify the differences in loading when running downhill at different grades compared to a level surface in female distance runners to determine the potential risk for injury. Fifteen female distance runners (age: 23.5 ± 4.9 y), who ran 56.3 ± 20.9 km a week participated in this study. Participants ran on a force-instrumented treadmill at 4.0 m/s for 2 min at 0%, ?5%, ?10%, ?15%, and ?20% grades, with 5 min of rest between conditions. Study findings showed increased impact forces (p < 0.001), and increased loading rates (p < 0.001) with increasing downhill grades compared to level. These results indicate a significantly greater risk of overuse injury to the lower extremity with steeper downhill grades. Individuals need to be aware of these risks to plan and implement training programmes that will increase performance while minimising injury risk.     

我国优秀中跑运动员体能特征的研究

运用文献资料法、专家调查法、测试法和数理统计法，对影响我国优秀中跑运动员的专项能力的体能因素进行综合分析.确定了影响中跑运动员运动成绩的体能指标，包括身体形态指标、身体机能指标、运动素质指标.分析了我国优秀中跑运动员的体能特征，以期能为科学选材和对运动员体能训练提供参考。     

The effect of foot orthoses and insoles on running economy and performance in distance runners: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT

Foot orthoses and insoles are prescribed to runners, however their impact on running economy and performance is uncertain. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the effect of foot orthoses and insoles on running economy and performance in distance runners. Seven electronic databases were searched from inception until June 2018. Eligible studies investigated the effect of foot orthoses or insoles on running economy (using indirect calorimetry) or running performance. Standardised mean differences (SMDs) were computed and meta-analyses were conducted using random effects models. Methodological quality was assessed using the Quality Index. Nine studies met the criteria and were included: five studies investigated the effect of foot orthoses on running economy and four investigated insoles. Foot orthoses were associated with small negative effects on running economy compared to no orthoses (SMD 0.42 [95% CI 0.17,0.72] p = 0.007). Shock absorbing insoles were also associated with negative effects on running economy, but an imprecise estimate (SMD 0.26 [95% CI ?0.33,0.84] p = 0.83). Quality Index scores ranged from 4 to 15 out of 17. Foot orthoses and shock absorbing insoles may adversely affect running economy in distance runners. Future research should consider their potential effects on running performance.     

Effects of a verbal and visual feedback system on running technique,perceived exertion and running economy in female novice runners

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a verbal and visual feedback system on running technique, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), and running economy. Twenty‐two female novice runners were randomly assigned to experimental (n = 11) and control (n = 11) groups. The experimental subjects received verbal and visual feedback concerning their running technique prior to and during each training run. Training involved 15 20‐min treadmill running sessions over a 5‐week period. The control group adhered to the same training routine but did not receive feedback concerning their running technique. High‐speed (100 Hz) photography was used to collect biomechanical data. A submaximal oxygen consumption test and Borg's RPE scale were used to collect data concerning running economy and perceived exertion, respectively. Statistical analysis using ANCOVA revealed that the proposed feedback system had a significant (P < 0.01) effect on the experimental group's running technique by affecting the following desired changes relative to the control group: greater relative stride lengths, shorter support time, greater ankle dorsiflexion during support and greater knee flexion during support and non‐support. There were no significant differences between the groups in submaximal VO₂ or RPE. The results of this study suggest that verbal and visual feedback are effective means of eliciting modifications in running style in female novice runners. The link between modifications in running style and improvements in running economy and perceived exertion remains unclear.     

Acute effects of high-intensity intermittent training on kinematics and foot strike patterns in endurance runners

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate running kinematic characteristics and foot strike patterns (FSP) during early and late stages of actual and common high-intensity intermittent training (HIIT): 5 × 2000 m with 120-s recovery between runs. Thirteen healthy, elite, highly trained male endurance runners participated in this study. They each had a personal record in the half-marathon of 70 ± 2.24 min, and each had a minimum experience of 4 years of training and competition. Heart rate (HR) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were monitored during HIIT. High levels of exhaustion were reached by the athletes during HIIT (HRpeak: 174.30 bpm; RPE: 17.23). There was a significant increase of HRpeak and RPE during HIIT; nevertheless, time for each run remained unchanged. A within-protocol paired t-test (first vs. last run) revealed no significant changes (P ≥ 0.05) in kinematics variables and FSP variables during HIIT. There were no substantial changes on kinematics and FSP characteristics in endurance runners after fatigue induced by a HIIT. Only the minimum ankle alignment showed a significant change. The author suggests that these results might be due to both the high athletic level of participants and their experience in HIIT.     

Ad libitum fluid intakes and thermoregulatory responses of female distance runners in three environments

Ad libitum fluid intakes and thermoregulatory responses were compared in eight female marathon runners during a 30 km treadmill run at individual best marathon race pace (range = 2.45-4.07 m·s -1 ) under three wet bulb globe temperature conditions (25°C, 17°C and 12°C, corresponding to hot, moderate and cool conditions, respectively). Rectal temperature, mean skin temperature and heart rate were recorded at 10 min intervals and expired air was collected every 5 km during exercise. Simulated water stations were also provided at 5 km intervals with voluntary fluid intake being recorded. Blood was drawn before and after exercise for the determination of plasma volume changes and osmolarity. Ad libitum fluid intakes in the hot trial (0.70 - 0.31 l·h -1 ; mean - s) were greater (P? 0.05) than in the cool (0.47 - 0.13 l·h -1 ) but not the moderate (0.54 - 0.26 l·h -1 ) trial. Each volume replaced 63%, 68% and 73% of total sweat losses in each condition, respectively, and kept dehydration below ~3% of body mass. After the initial 30 min of exercise, rectal temperature was maintained well below 39°C for >2 h of continuous running. The results demonstrate that the thermoregulatory responses of female distance runners to exercise in variable, but compensable, weather conditions is well maintained when ad libitum fluid intakes replace approximately 60-70% of sweat losses.     

中长跑运动员赛前训练的调控研究

运用实验法对参加全国第七届大学生运动会的江苏省大学生中长跑运动员和参加第十届全运会江苏队中长跑运动员的赛前训练期间的生理学指标进行跟踪测定、评价，对训练进行了调控。研究表明：用心率、心功能指数、尿蛋白、最大吸氧量、无氧功率、斯坦格试验与汉契试验、无氧闽等指标评定中长跑运动员赛前的机能状态有较强的实用性和针对性，但需结合项目的特点和训练实际，加强监控和调控，进行综合分析；中长跑赛前训练安排应以专项素质为主，突出速度和速度耐力的训练，速度力量在中长跑项目赛前训练要给予重视，负荷的安排是赛前训练的关键。     

Ad libitum fluid intakes and thermoregulatory responses of female distance runners in three environments.

Ad libitum fluid intakes and thermoregulatory responses were compared in eight female marathon runners during a 30 km treadmill run at individual best marathon race pace (range = 2.45-4.07 m x s(-1)) under three wet bulb globe temperature conditions (25 degrees C, 17 degrees C and 12 degrees C, corresponding to hot, moderate and cool conditions, respectively). Rectal temperature, mean skin temperature and heart rate were recorded at 10 min intervals and expired air was collected every 5 km during exercise. Simulated water stations were also provided at 5 km intervals with voluntary fluid intake being recorded. Blood was drawn before and after exercise for the determination of plasma volume changes and osmolarity. Ad libitum fluid intakes in the hot trial (0.70+/-0.31 l x h(-1); mean+/-s) were greater (P< 0.05) than in the cool (0.47+/-0.13 l x h(-1)) but not the moderate (0.54+/-0.26 l x h(-1)) trial. Each volume replaced 63%, 68% and 73% of total sweat losses in each condition, respectively, and kept dehydration below approximately 3% of body mass. After the initial 30 min of exercise, rectal temperature was maintained well below 39 degrees C for > 2 h of continuous running. The results demonstrate that the thermoregulatory responses of female distance runners to exercise in variable, but compensable, weather conditions is well maintained when ad libitum fluid intakes replace approximately 60-70% of sweat losses.     

Stride frequency in relation to oxygen consumption in experienced and novice runners

Abstract

We hypothesised that experienced runners would select a stride frequency closer to the optimum (minimal energy costs) than would novice runners. In addition, we expected that optimal stride frequency could simply be determined by monitoring heart rate without measuring oxygen consumption (V?O₂). Ten healthy males (mean±s: 24±2 year) with no running training experience and 10 trained runners of similar age ran at constant treadmill speed corresponding to 80% of individual ventilatory threshold. For two days, they ran at seven different stride frequencies (self-selected stride frequency±18%) imposed by a metronome. Optimal stride frequency was based on the minimum of a second-order polynomial equation fitted through steady state V?O₂ at each stride frequency. Running cost (mean±s) at optimal stride frequency was higher (P < 0.05) in novice (236±31 ml O₂·kg^?1.km^?1) than trained (189±13 ml O₂·kg^?1.km^?1) runners. Self-selected stride frequency (mean±s; strides^.min^?1) for novice (77.8±2.8) and trained runners (84.4±5.3) were lower (P < 0.05) than optimal stride frequency (respectively, 84.9±5.0 and 87.1±4.8). The difference between self-selected and optimal stride frequency was smaller (P < 0.05) for trained runners. In both the groups optimal stride frequency established with heart rate was not different (P > 0.3) from optimal stride frequency based on V?O₂. In each group and despite limited variation between participants, optimal stride frequencies derived from V?O₂ and heart rate were related (r > 0.7; P < 0.05). In conclusion, trained runners chose a stride frequency closer to the optimum for energy expenditure than novices. Heart rate could be used to establish optimal stride frequency.     

Athletic identity and disordered eating in obligatory and non-obligatory runners

Abstract

Athletic identity is the extent to which an individual identifies with being an athlete. Strong “running” role identity may contribute to increased restrictive dieting behaviours, potentially placing such individuals at risk for eating disorders. In this study, we examined differences in eating and exercise behaviours/attitudes and athletic identity in obligatory versus non-obligatory runners. Male and female participants completed a battery of questionnaires including the Eating Disorder Inventory, Obligatory Exercise Questionnaire (OEQ), and Athletic Identity Measurement Scale (AIMS). OEQ scores ≥50 were indicative of obligatory exercise. The non-obligatory runners (n = 82) and obligatory runners (n = 91) were compared on the various measures. Obligatory runners scored significantly higher (P < 0.002) on all of the eating attitudes/disorder measures, and the AIMS (P ≤ 0.006). Scores on the AIMS were correlated with all disordered eating measures (P < 0.05). Exercising to maintain identification with the running role may be associated with pathological eating and training practices.     

Enhanced expectancies improve movement efficiency in runners

Abstract

We followed up on recent findings demonstrating that enhancing performers' expectancies can improve their performance. Specifically, we examined whether providing experienced runners with positive feedback regarding their movement efficiency would increase running efficiency. Two groups of experienced runners ran on a treadmill at 75% of their maximum oxygen consumption ([Vdot]O_2max) for 10 min. One group (enhanced expectancy) was provided with (fabricated) feedback about the efficiency of their running style every 2 min. A control group was not given feedback. Oxygen consumption decreased in the enhanced expectancy group across measurement times (every 2 min for 10 min), but remained the same in the control group. In addition, performance perceptions changed only in the enhanced expectancy group, indicating a perception of greater ease of running and reduced fatigue when assessed after compared with before running. Finally, positive affect increased from a pre- to a post-test in the enhanced expectancy group, in contrast to the control group. Our findings show that enhanced expectancies can have a positive effect on movement efficiency and running experience. They add to the accumulating evidence for the social-cognitive-affective-motor nature of motor performance.     

Maximal lactate steady state in trained adolescent runners

The aims of this study were: (1) to identify the exercise intensity that corresponds to the maximal lactate steady state in adolescent endurance-trained runners; (2) to identify any differences between the sexes; and (3) to compare the maximal lactate steady state with commonly cited fixed blood lactate reference parameters. Sixteen boys and nine girls volunteered to participate in the study. They were first tested using a stepwise incremental treadmill protocol to establish the blood lactate profile and peak oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O₂). Running speeds corresponding to fixed whole blood lactate concentrations of 2.0, 2.5 and 4.0?mmol?·?l^?1 were calculated using linear interpolation. The maximal lactate steady state was determined from four separate 20-min constant-speed treadmill runs. The maximal lactate steady state was defined as the fastest running speed, to the nearest 0.5?km?·?h^?1, where the change in blood lactate concentration between 10 and 20?min was?<0.5?mmol?·?l^?1. Although the boys had to run faster than the girls to elicit the maximal lactate steady state (15.7 vs 14.3?km?·?h^?1, P?<0.01), once the data were expressed relative to percent peak [Vdot]O₂ (85 and 85%, respectively) and percent peak heart rate (92 and 94%, respectively), there were no differences between the sexes (P?>0.05). The running speed and percent peak [Vdot]O₂ at the maximal lactate steady state were not different to those corresponding to the fixed blood lactate concentrations of 2.0 and 2.5?mmol?·?l^?1 (P?>0.05), but were both lower than those at the 4.0?mmol?·?l^?1 concentration (P?<0.05). In conclusion, the maximal lactate steady state corresponded to a similar relative exercise intensity as that reported in adult athletes. The running speed, percent peak [Vdot]O₂ and percent peak heart rate at the maximal lactate steady state are approximated by the fixed blood lactate concentration of 2.5?mmol?·?l^?1 measured during an incremental treadmill test in boys and girls.     

Acute kinematics changes in marathon runners using different footwear

The effects of running with or without shoes on injury prevention have been extensively studied, and several investigations have assessed biomechanical differences between them. However, findings are not consensual and further insights on biomechanical load associated with differently shod or barefoot conditions may be needed. This study aimed to observe if habitually shod marathon runners show acute alterations when running barefoot or with minimalist shoes, and to determine whether the running kinematical adaptations of wearing minimalist shoes were similar to barefoot running. Twelve male marathon runners ran on the treadmill at their average marathon pace in different footwear conditions: habitual running shoes, minimalist shoes, and barefoot. High-resolution infrared cameras and visual 3D software were used to assess kinematic data. The following parameters were studied: foot strike angle, cycle time, stance time, normalized stride length, hip, knee, and ankle angular position at initial contact, and their respective range-of-motion (ROM) during stance phase. Contrary to the expectations, it was found that highly trained habitually shod elite marathon runners changed their lower limb kinematic pattern both when running barefoot or wearing minimalist shoes. Minimalist shoes showed a trend towards intermediate biomechanical effects between running with and without shoes.     

Effect of resistance training regimens on treadmill running and neuromuscular performance in recreational endurance runners

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of heavy resistance, explosive resistance, and muscle endurance training on neuromuscular, endurance, and high-intensity running performance in recreational endurance runners. Twenty-seven male runners were divided into one of three groups: heavy resistance, explosive resistance or muscle endurance training. After 6 weeks of preparatory training, the groups underwent an 8-week resistance training programme as a supplement to endurance training. Before and after the 8-week training period, maximal strength (one-repetition maximum), electromyographic activity of the leg extensors, countermovement jump height, maximal speed in the maximal anaerobic running test, maximal endurance performance, maximal oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O_2max), and running economy were assessed. Maximal strength improved in the heavy (P = 0.034, effect size ES = 0.38) and explosive resistance training groups (P = 0.003, ES = 0.67) with increases in leg muscle activation (heavy: P = 0.032, ES = 0.38; explosive: P = 0.002, ES = 0.77). Only the heavy resistance training group improved maximal running speed in the maximal anaerobic running test (P = 0.012, ES = 0.52) and jump height (P = 0.006, ES = 0.59). Maximal endurance running performance was improved in all groups (heavy: P = 0.005, ES = 0.56; explosive: P = 0.034, ES = 0.39; muscle endurance: P = 0.001, ES = 0.94), with small though not statistically significant improvements in [Vdot]O_2max (heavy: ES = 0.08; explosive: ES = 0.29; muscle endurance: ES = 0.65) and running economy (ES in all groups < 0.08). All three modes of strength training used concurrently with endurance training were effective in improving treadmill running endurance performance. However, both heavy and explosive strength training were beneficial in improving neuromuscular characteristics, and heavy resistance training in particular contributed to improvements in high-intensity running characteristics. Thus, endurance runners should include heavy resistance training in their training programmes to enhance endurance performance, such as improving sprinting ability at the end of a race.     

Influence of shoe drop on running kinematics and kinetics in female runners

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of shoe drop on lower limb kinematics and kinetics in female runners.

Fifteen healthy female runners ran on a 15-m runway at their preferred speed with three different shoe-drop conditions: 0 (D₀), 6 (D₆) and 10 (D₁₀) mm. Three-dimensional marker positions and ground reaction forces were recorded to analyse kinetic and kinematic parameters using zero- (0D) and one-dimensional (1D) metrics (statistical parametric mapping, SPM). Regarding 0D parameters, significantly higher loading rates and transient peaks were found in D₀ compared to D₆ and D₁₀ conditions (both p?<?.01). For 1D analysis, significantly higher ankle dorsiflexion moments were found in D₀ compared to D₆ and D₁₀ during the braking phase (p?<?.01). Lower knee extension moments between 52% and 55% and 61% and 65% of contact time (p?<?.05) were also found. No difference was found between D₆ and D₁₀ conditions (p?>?.05). As previously shown in men, this study demonstrates that shoe drop influences running kinematic and kinetic patterns. Using SPM analysis in conjunction with classical analysis, the study adds new understanding on the influence of shoes on joint moment during contact time.     

Modelling error distribution in the ground reaction force during an induced-acceleration analysis of running in rear-foot strikers

The objective of this study was to develop and evaluate a methodology for quantifying the contributions of modelling error terms, as well as individual joint torque, gravitational force and motion-dependent terms, to the generation of ground reaction force (GRF), whose true value can be measured with high accuracy using a force platform. Dynamic contributions to the GRF were derived from the combination of (1) the equations of motion for the individual segments, (2) the equations for constraint conditions arising from the connection of adjacent segments at joints, and (3) the equations for anatomical constraint axes at certain joints. The contribution of the error term was divided into four components caused by fluctuation of segment lengths, geometric variation in the constraint joint axes, and residual joint force and moment errors. The proposed methodology was applied to the running motion of thirteen rear-foot strikers at a constant speed of 3.3?m/s. Modelling errors arose primarily from fluctuations in support leg segment lengths and rapid movement of the virtual joint between the foot and ground during the first 20% of stance phase. The magnitudes of these error contributions to the vertical and anterior/posterior components of the GRF are presented alongside the non-error contributions, of which the joint torque term was the largest.     

Effects of resistance training on performance in previously trained endurance runners: A systematic review

The aim of this work was to identify, synthesize and evaluate the results of randomized controlled trials examining the effects of resistance training on performance indicators in previously trained endurance runners. A database search was carried out in PubMed, Science Direct, OvidSPMedLine, Wiley, Web of Science, ProQuest and Google Scholar. In accordance with the PRISMA checklist, 18 published articles dated prior to May 2016 involving 321 endurance runners were reviewed using the PEDro scale. Resistance training led to general improvements in muscular strength, running economy, muscle power factors, and direct performance in distances between 1,500 and 10,000 m. Such improvements were not accompanied by a significant increase in body mass or signs of overtraining. However, improvements did not occur in all cases, suggesting that they might depend on the specific characteristics of the resistance training applied. Although current evidence supports the effectiveness of resistance training to improve performance in already trained endurance runners, the methodological inconsistencies identified suggest that the results should be interpreted with caution. Future studies ought to investigate the benefits of resistance training in endurance runners while considering the existence of possible differentiated effects based on the specific characteristics of the resistance training carried out.