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Arch Stiffness Does Not Determine Running Economy in Recreational Runners
Ian Bradford1, Padraig Kirkwood1, Jared Eddy1
1Division of Exercise Physiology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA.
International Journal of Exercise Science
|May 1, 2023
Summary
Arch stiffness and foot length do not significantly impact running economy in recreational runners at lower speeds. Other physiological and biomechanical factors likely play a more crucial role.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
Background:
- Running economy (RE) is a key determinant of endurance performance.
- Foot anthropometrics, including arch stiffness and foot length, are potential contributors to RE.
- Understanding these relationships can inform training and footwear choices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between foot anthropometrics (foot length, arch stiffness, Achilles tendon moment arm length) and running economy in recreational runners.
- To determine if these foot characteristics predict running economy at low running velocities.
Main Methods:
- Sixteen trained recreational runners underwent measurements of foot anthropometrics (FL, ASI, ATML).
- Maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) and running economy (RE) were assessed at 9.9 km/h and 11.9 km/h on a 1% grade.
- Linear regression analysis was used to evaluate relationships (α = 0.05).
Main Results:
- No statistically significant correlations were found between arch stiffness index (ASI), foot length (FL), or Achilles tendon moment arm length (ATML) and running economy (RE) (p > 0.05).
- VO2max values were 3.68 ± 0.19 L/min (absolute) and 52.96 ± 1.51 mL/kg/min (relative).
- Oxygen consumption for RE at 9.9 km/h and 11.9 km/h was 34.9 ± 0.80 mL/kg/min and 41.02 ± 0.82 mL/kg/min, respectively.
Conclusions:
- Arch stiffness and foot length do not appear to be significant predictors of running economy at low running velocities in this cohort.
- Running economy at lower speeds is likely influenced by a combination of other physiological and biomechanical factors not assessed in this study.
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