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Elite long sprint running: a comparison between incline and level training sessions
Jean Slawinski1, Sylvain Dorel, François Hug
1Laboratory of Biomechanics and Physiology, French National Institute of Sports, Paris, France.
Incline sprints decrease 400-m running velocity by altering stride length and rate, with reduced hamstring muscle activation. This finding is crucial for coaches designing training programs for elite sprinters.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics of sprint running
- Exercise physiology
Background:
- Elite 400-m runners utilize both level and incline training.
- Understanding kinematic and muscular differences is key for optimizing performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare stride kinematics and muscular activity during maximal velocity sprints on level ground versus incline.
- To analyze the effects of incline training on elite 400-m runners.
Main Methods:
- Nine elite 400-m sprinters performed maximal velocity sprints on level (LEV) and incline (INC) ground.
- Kinematic and electromyography (EMG) data were collected during 40-50m phases.
- Analysis included stride length, stride rate, and muscle activation (RMS and iEMG).
Main Results:
- Incline sprints resulted in significantly lower running velocity, stride length, and stride rate compared to level sprints.
- Lower limb joints were more flexed during incline running.
- Reduced root mean square (RMS) activity was observed in hamstrings and vastus lateralis, while integrated electromyography (iEMG) for hamstrings remained constant.
Conclusions:
- Lower running velocity during incline sprints is linked to decreased hamstring muscle activation.
- Findings differ from previous studies using similar absolute velocities.
- Coaches should consider the reduced hamstring activation during incline maximal sprint training.
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