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Mechanical energy states during running.

P Luhtanen, P V Komi

European Journal of Applied Physiology and Occupational Physiology

|February 21, 1978

Summary

Mechanical work during running increases with speed, but the calculation method may not accurately reflect physiological energy costs at higher velocities. This method is better suited for walking and slow running analysis.

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Area of Science:

Biomechanics
Exercise Physiology
Sports Science

Background:

Understanding the mechanical demands of running is crucial for optimizing performance and preventing injuries.
Previous research has explored the energy expenditure during locomotion, but detailed analysis of mechanical work partitioning at high speeds is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate changes in total mechanical work and its partitioning into kinetic, potential, and rotational energy states during a running step cycle.
To evaluate the relationship between running velocity and mechanical energy states and work phases.

Main Methods:

Six well-trained athletes ran at 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% of their maximum speed (approximately 9.3 m/s).
Cinematographic techniques and a 13-segment mechanical model were used to calculate mechanical energy states.
Analysis focused on kinetic, potential, and rotational energy, as well as positive and negative work during the stance phase.

Main Results:

Kinetic and rotational energy increased parabolically with running velocity.
Potential energy decreased linearly as running speed increased.
The power of the positive work phase increased quadratically with speed.
The ratio of negative to positive work (Wneg/Wpos) remained constant across all measured speeds.

Conclusions:

The employed method for calculating mechanical energy states may not accurately represent physiological energy costs at high running speeds.
This calculation method might be suitable for analyzing walking and slow running, where elastic energy storage and utilization are less significant.

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