How do training experience and geographical origin of a runner affect running biomechanics?

Background: Several studies compared African runners with runners from other places with difference ethnicities to identify biomechanical factors that may contribute to their extraordinary running performance. However, most studies only assessed runners at the elite level. Whether the performance difference was a result of nature or nurture remains unclear.

Bilateral asymmetry of running gait in competitive, recreational and novice runners at different speeds.

The mechanisms and underlying causes of bilateral asymmetry among healthy runners of different levels remain unclear. This cross-sectional laboratory study aimed to investigate the effects of running speed and running experience or competitive level on bilateral symmetry during running. Eleven competitive runners, 9 recreational runners and 11 novice runners were recruited in this study.

Running biomechanics before and after Pose® method gait retraining in distance runners.

Pose® Method gait retraining has been claimed to modify running form and prevent injury. This study examined the running biomechanics before and after Pose® Method gait retraining. Fourteen runners underwent a 4-week Pose® Method gait retraining program delivered by a certified coach.

Effects of footwear midsole thickness on running biomechanics.

Shoe manufacturers launch running shoes with increased (e.g., maximalists) or decreased (e.

Does maximalist footwear lower impact loading during level ground and downhill running?

A new model of running shoes which features an extreme cushioning and an oversized midsole, known as the maximalist (MAX) was launched. This design claims to provide excellent shock absorption, particularly during downhill running. This study sought to assess the effects of MAX on the external impact loading, footstrike pattern, and stride length during level ground and downhill running on an instrumented treadmill.

Measurement agreement between a newly developed sensing insole and traditional laboratory-based method for footstrike pattern detection in runners.

This study introduced a novel but simple method to continuously measure footstrike patterns in runners using inexpensive force sensors. Two force sensing resistors were firmly affixed at the heel and second toe of both insoles to collect the time signal of foot contact. A total of 109 healthy young adults (42 males and 67 females) were recruited in this study.

Immediate and short-term biomechanical adaptation of habitual barefoot runners who start shod running.

This study investigated the immediate and short-term effects of minimalist shoes (MS) and traditional running shoes (TRS) on vertical loading rates, foot strike pattern and lower limb kinematics in a group of habitual barefoot runners. Twelve habitual barefoot runners were randomly given a pair of MS or TRS and were asked to run with the prescribed shoes for 1 month. Outcome variables were obtained before, immediate after and 1 month after shoe prescription.