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Velocity-Matched Resisted and Unresisted Sprinting Across Broad Loads Show Minor Biomechanical Differences.
Edson Soares da Silva1, Aleš Dolenec2, Matt R Cross3
1Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, University Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, Lyon 1, University Savoie Mont-Blanc, Saint-Etienne, France.
Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports
|November 27, 2025
Summary
Resisted sprinting shows modest kinetic and kinematic differences compared to unresisted sprinting when running velocity is matched. These subtle changes suggest velocity, not just resistance, influences sprinting mechanics.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Science
- Human Movement Analysis
Background:
- Previous studies often confound resistance and velocity in sprint comparisons.
- Understanding isolated effects of resistance is crucial for training optimization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate kinetic and kinematic differences between unresisted and resisted sprinting at matched velocities.
- To determine if velocity is a confounding factor in resisted sprint research.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study with 14 amateur sportsmen.
- Maximal overground sprints with motorized resistance (20%, 40%, 60% VDEC).
- Analysis of ground reaction forces and segment/joint angles using ANOVA and SPM.
Main Results:
- Resisted sprinting showed longer contact times and greater vertical impulse at higher resistance levels.
- Increased ankle range of motion and hip angle at toe-off were observed with resistance.
- Statistical parametric mapping identified specific kinetic and kinematic differences.
Conclusions:
- Movement velocity is a significant confounder in resisted sprinting research.
- The observed differences suggest load-specific mechanisms warrant further investigation.
- Modest changes highlight the need for velocity-matched comparisons in biomechanical studies.
