Transient Effect at the Onset of Human Running

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Science
• Human Motion Analysis

Background:

• Athletes commonly report an initial unsteady sensation during running.
• This transient effect typically resolves as runners establish their pace.
• Quantifying this phenomenon is crucial for understanding early-stage running dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detect and quantify the transient effect in runners.
• To establish a methodological basis for analyzing this sensation.
• To explore potential correlations with performance metrics.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 3D acceleration data from MEMS sensors on lower limbs.
• Applied attractor method and Fourier transforms for signal analysis.
• Collected data from 30 athletes over two 60-minute treadmill sessions.

Main Results:

• A substantial transient effect was detected in 81% of runs.
• The average duration of the transient effect was 5.25 minutes (range: <1 to 31 minutes).
• No significant correlation found between the transient effect and running level, experience, or training volume.

Conclusions:

• Developed a reliable method to detect and quantify the transient effect in moderate-speed running.
• The transient effect is a prevalent phenomenon in runners.
• Further research incorporating physical and metabolic data is needed to understand its performance impact.