Biomechanical Analysis of Distance Running By: Chris Liebes
The Ideal Distance Runner Exhibits optimal physiological factors VO2 MAX Muscle fiber type Metabolic adaptations Exhibits optimal running economy Stride length Stride frequency Shorter ground contact time Exhibits optimal physiological factors VO2 MAX Muscle fiber type Metabolic adaptations Exhibits optimal running economy Stride length Stride frequency Shorter ground contact time
Purpose of Analysis Determine if one set of biomechanical characteristics exists within distance running, that when applied would increase optimal distance running economy and performance
Methods Had three individuals of varying levels of size and ability, run at a sub-maximal pace around a 1/4 mile track. Camera was placed at the 300 meter mark and captured images of the performers as they passed. Images and raw data were then used for comparison purposes. Had three individuals of varying levels of size and ability, run at a sub-maximal pace around a 1/4 mile track. Camera was placed at the 300 meter mark and captured images of the performers as they passed. Images and raw data were then used for comparison purposes.
Results No single set of biomechanical factors, due to the complexity of running economy, could fully explain the differences in performances among the individuals observed A great deal of variability existed among performers suggesting that a number of physiological and biomechanical factors influenced a performers running mechanics No single set of biomechanical factors, due to the complexity of running economy, could fully explain the differences in performances among the individuals observed A great deal of variability existed among performers suggesting that a number of physiological and biomechanical factors influenced a performers running mechanics
Results (Cont.) Ground contact time appeared to be the only characteristic that had a big influence on running economy and overall speed This appeared to be found more in midfoot and front foot strikers than heel strike foot patterns as my research suggested and as observed in my analysis Ground contact time appeared to be the only characteristic that had a big influence on running economy and overall speed This appeared to be found more in midfoot and front foot strikers than heel strike foot patterns as my research suggested and as observed in my analysis
Reasons Longer ground contact times are a result of greater vertical oscillation and result in a greater vertical impulse. Together these put added demands on the extensor musculature resulting in a greater energy demand Longer ground contact times are a result of greater vertical oscillation and result in a greater vertical impulse. Together these put added demands on the extensor musculature resulting in a greater energy demand
Reasons (Cont.) Recent research also suggests that front/mid foot strikes result in a shorter braking phase (negative work) and use elastic energy stored within muscles and tendons and leg stiffness to conserve energy.
Conclusion Running economy is influenced by a complex array of physiological and biomechanical factors specific to each individual and one ideal running technique is not the best strategy for increasing running economy and performance
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