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Simple method for measuring center of mass work during field running
Marine Devise1, Jérémy Rossi2, Nicolas Théveniau3
1Univ Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, Laboratoire Interuniversitaire de Biologie de la Motricité, EA 7424, F-42023 Saint-Etienne, France; CTC, Comité Professionnel de Développement Cuir Chaussure Maroquinerie, 4 rue Hermann Frenkel, 69367 Lyon Cedex 07, France.
Journal of Biomechanics
|November 6, 2019
Summary
A new, simple method estimates center of mass work in running using basic mechanical parameters, avoiding complex equipment. This approach offers a practical alternative for calculating running biomechanics.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Human Movement Analysis
- Sports Science
Background:
- Calculating center of mass (CM) work in running typically requires sophisticated and costly equipment.
- Existing methods can be inconvenient for field-based assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and validate a novel, simplified method for calculating CM work during field running.
- To offer a cost-effective and practical alternative to traditional measurement devices.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a spring-mass model incorporating measurements of average horizontal velocity, ground contact time, and flight time.
- Compared results with a reference method based on ground reaction force measurements.
- Analyzed data from ten recreational male runners across various velocities on a treadmill.
Main Results:
- The proposed method showed strong agreement with the reference method for total CM work (Wext, r=0.99), potential work (Wpot, r=0.98), and forward kinetic work (Wkinf, r=0.98).
- Calculated Wext was +3.39% higher, Wpot -4.14% lower, and Wkinf +7.34% higher compared to the reference method.
- Significant linear regressions (p<0.05) confirmed the validity of the new method.
Conclusions:
- The new simple method provides a reliable estimation of center of mass work in running.
- This approach is suitable for field running assessments due to its simplicity and minimal equipment requirements.
- Facilitates accessible biomechanical analysis of running.
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