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Updated: Mar 7, 2026
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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
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Changes in Vertical and Joint Stiffness in Runners With Advancing Age
Douglas W Powell1, D S Blaise Williams2
1School of Health Studies, University of Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee.
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|February 28, 2017
Summary
Older runners exhibit altered biomechanics, with greater vertical stiffness but lower joint stiffness compared to younger runners. These changes may reflect adaptations to minimize energy cost or reduced strength.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Gerontology
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Age-related neuromuscular changes can decrease running performance and increase injury risk.
- Regular physical activity may help mitigate age-related declines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare running biomechanics, specifically vertical and joint stiffness, between young and older adults.
- To investigate age-related differences in lower extremity joint angles, moments, and stiffness during running.
Main Methods:
- Three-dimensional biomechanics were recorded for nine young (YOUNG) and ten older (OLD) runners during over-ground running at 3.35 m/s.
- Ankle and knee joint angles, moments, and stiffness values were analyzed and compared between the two age groups.
Main Results:
- Older runners demonstrated greater vertical stiffness (OLD: 38.1 ± 5.7 vs. YOUNG: 32.8 ± 3.6) but lower ankle (OLD: 0.118 ± 0.017 vs. YOUNG: 0.134 ± 0.021 Nm/kg) and knee joint stiffness (OLD: 0.098 ± 0.014 vs. YOUNG: 0.119 ± 0.016 Nm/kg).
- Younger runners exhibited greater peak knee flexion angles, peak ankle plantarflexion, and peak knee extension moments compared to older runners.
Conclusions:
- Older adults adopt altered lower extremity biomechanics during running compared to younger adults.
- These biomechanical alterations may be an adaptation to reduce the metabolic cost of running or a consequence of diminished lower extremity strength and power.
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