Changes in running biomechanics in master runners over age 50: a systematic review

The number of individuals over 50 years of age participating in recreational and competitive running has increased over the past ten years. It has been established that older runners experience a reduction in strength and power. These changes may contribute to different running biomechanics from younger runners. The purpose of this study was to synthesise the current evidence on running biomechanical differences in the lower extremity between masters runners over 50 years and younger runners under 40 years. The systematic data search included CINAHL, MEDLINE, and SPORTDiscus databases. Fourteen cross-sectional studies that compared lower extremity biomechanics of masters runners to younger runners were included. Masters runners demonstrated increased peak hip extension, with mixed results at the knee and ankle. Masters runners demonstrated decreased horizontal, peak propulsive, and active vertical peak ground reaction forces compared to younger runners. Joint powers and moments were consistently decreased at the ankle with no significant differences at the knee or hip. Masters runners demonstrate different kinematics and kinetics compared to younger runners with the greatest changes at the ankle. The results of this review may be beneficial for future studies investigating whether these differences are reversible.