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Comparative Analysis of Lower Limb Kinematics between the Initial and Terminal Phase of 5km Treadmill Running
Published on: July 17, 2020
Changes in running mechanics and spring-mass behaviour during a 5-km time trial
O Girard1, G P Millet, J Slawinski
1Research and Education Centre, ASPETAR - Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar. oliv.girard@gmail.com
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|April 4, 2013
Summary
During strenuous 5-km runs, running mechanics change, leading to decreased vertical stiffness and altered impact forces. This understanding is crucial for optimizing training and preventing injuries in runners.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
Background:
- Fatigue during exhaustive running is a growing research area.
- Understanding changes in spring-mass behavior during self-paced exercise is vital for training and injury prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate continuous changes in running mechanics and spring-mass behavior during a 5-km run.
- To analyze how fatigue affects biomechanical parameters during a maximal effort run.
Main Methods:
- 12 competitive triathletes completed a 5-km running time trial.
- Ground reaction forces were measured every 200m using a force platform.
- Spring-mass model characteristics were calculated from force data.
Main Results:
- Running velocity decreased, while stride length and frequency reduced over the 5km.
- Contact time and total stride duration increased, indicating altered running economy.
- Peak vertical forces and leg compression decreased, with a significant reduction in vertical stiffness.
Conclusions:
- Spring-mass behavior shifts towards reduced vertical stiffness during a 5-km time trial.
- These changes impact force production and may increase injury risk.
- Findings can inform training programs for endurance athletes.
