Validity of Stryd Running Power for Estimating Metabolic Demand During Incline Treadmill Running.

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Technology
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Inertial measurement units (IMUs) like the Stryd running power meter are emerging as alternatives to traditional metrics for guiding endurance training.
• While effective on level surfaces, the accuracy of IMUs for monitoring training intensity during inclined running remains under investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the accuracy of the Stryd running power meter in monitoring training intensity during incline running.
• To determine if Stryd can provide consistent metabolic demand readings across various incline gradients.

Main Methods:

• Ten trained runners completed a Step-Ramp-Step test to establish their respiratory compensation point.
• Participants then performed 5-minute running trials at 0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8% inclines at a power output 10% below their respiratory compensation point.
• Metabolic power and mechanical efficiency were calculated during the final minute of each trial.

Main Results:

• Metabolic power and oxygen uptake were significantly higher at 6% and 8% inclines compared to 0% incline.
• Mechanical efficiency was significantly lower at 6% and 8% inclines.
• Ventilation, breathing frequency, heart rate, and rating of perceived exertion did not differ significantly across inclines.

Conclusions:

• The Stryd running power meter provides relatively consistent indications of metabolic demand across different incline conditions.
• Despite a slight underestimation of metabolic power (2%-4%) at steeper inclines, Stryd is a useful metric for guiding training during incline treadmill running.