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Influence of Step-Width Manipulation on Running Biomechanics
Published on: February 28, 2025
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Sprint running: how changes in step frequency affect running mechanics and leg spring behaviour at maximal speed
Andrea Monte1, Valentina Muollo1, Francesca Nardello1
1a Department of Neurological, Biomedical and Movement Sciences , University of Verona , Verona , Italy.
Journal of Sports Sciences
|March 31, 2016
Summary
Athletes optimize running speed at their self-selected step frequency. Changes in step frequency alter biomechanical variables like contact time and vertical stiffness, with significant differences observed between genders and training levels.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Science
- Human Movement
Background:
- Understanding biomechanical adaptations during maximal sprinting is crucial for performance enhancement.
- Step frequency is a key variable influencing sprint mechanics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate changes in biomechanical variables during maximal sprint runs with altered step frequency.
- To determine if these adaptations differ based on gender and training level.
Main Methods:
- Forty athletes (elite and intermediate men and women) performed 80-m maximal sprints at self-selected and altered step frequencies (±15%, ±30%).
- Key biomechanical variables including contact time, flight time, step length, vertical stiffness, and maximal force were measured.
Main Results:
- Running speed was optimized at the self-selected step frequency.
- Increasing step frequency decreased contact time, flight time, and step length, while increasing vertical stiffness.
- Maximal leg spring compression was highest at the self-selected frequency.
Conclusions:
- Running speed is maximized at an individual's self-selected step frequency.
- Biomechanical adaptations to altered step frequency vary between genders and training levels.
- Vertical stiffness and leg spring dynamics are significantly influenced by step frequency manipulation.
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