Comprehensive mechanical power analysis in sprint running acceleration.

Sprint running is a common feature of many sport activities. The ability of an athlete to cover a distance in the shortest time relies on his/her power production. The aim of this study was to provide an exhaustive description of the mechanical determinants of power output in sprint running acceleration and to check whether a predictive equation for internal power designed for steady locomotion is applicable to sprint running acceleration.

Mechanical work in shuttle running as a function of speed and distance: Implications for power and efficiency.

Biomechanics (and energetics) of human locomotion are generally studied at constant, linear, speed whereas less is known about running mechanics when velocity changes (because of accelerations, decelerations or changes of direction). The aim of this study was to calculate mechanical work and power and to estimate mechanical efficiency in shuttle runs (as an example of non-steady locomotion) executed at different speeds and over different distances. A motion capture system was utilised to record the movements of the body segments while 20 athletes performed shuttle runs (with a 180° change of direction) at three paces (slow, moderate and maximal) and over four distances (5, 10, 15 and 20 m).

Effects of Joint Kinetics on Energy Cost during Repeated Vertical Jumping.

Purpose: The present study was designed to investigate the effects of lower limb joint kinetics on energy cost during jumping.

Methods: Eight male middle and long-distance runners volunteered for the study. The subjects were asked to repeat vertical jumps at a frequency of 2 Hz for 3 min on a force platform in three different surface inclination conditions: Incline (+8°), Level (0°), and Decline (-8°).