Do subjective assessments of running patterns reflect objective parameters?

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Science
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Running patterns are often categorized into subgroups for analysis.
• The Volodalen method is a subjective, field-based tool for classifying runners into aerial or terrestrial categories.
• Validation of subjective running gait classification against objective measures is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate the Volodalen method by quantifying the relationship between its subjective scores and 3D biomechanical measures.
• To assess the reliability of runner classification across different speeds.

Main Methods:

• Fifty-four runners performed treadmill running at various speeds (10-18 km/h).
• Subjective classification using the 5-item Volodalen method was performed.
• Objective 3D motion capture assessed seven biomechanical parameters correlated with subjective scores.

Main Results:

• Runner classification (aerial/terrestrial) was consistent across speeds.
• Five of seven objective biomechanical parameters significantly differed between aerial and terrestrial runners.
• Correlations between subjective Volodalen scores and objective measures ranged from trivial to very large.

Conclusions:

• The Volodalen method's visual running gait assessment is supported by quantifiable objective biomechanical parameters.
• The study supports the validity of the Volodalen method for classifying running patterns.
• Minor modifications are proposed to improve the method's usability and agreement with objective data.