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Physiological cost of running while wearing spring-boots
John A Mercer1, Dale A Branks, Sarah K Wasserman
1Department of Kinesiology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, Nevada 89154, USA. jmercer@unlv.edu
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|May 14, 2003
Summary
Running in spring-boots has a similar physiological cost to running shoes, despite a lower stride frequency. This suggests spring-boots may reduce impact forces without affecting running economy.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Running economy is crucial for performance and injury prevention.
- Novel footwear, like spring-boots, aims to alter biomechanics and potentially improve running efficiency or reduce impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the physiological cost of running in spring-boots versus traditional running shoes across various speeds.
- To analyze key physiological and biomechanical variables during running with different footwear.
Main Methods:
- Seven subjects completed running trials at three speeds (2.23, 2.68, 3.13 m/s) wearing either spring-boots or running shoes.
- Measurements included oxygen consumption (Vo2), heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and stride frequency.
- Shoe conditions were counterbalanced, and speeds were tested progressively.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found in Vo2, HR, or RPE between spring-boots and running shoes across all speeds.
- Stride frequency was consistently lower when running in spring-boots compared to running shoes at all tested speeds (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Despite altered stride mechanics and added mass, spring-boots do not increase the physiological cost of running compared to standard running shoes.
- Spring-boots may offer a potential benefit by reducing impact forces without compromising running economy.