A novel running mechanic's class changes kinematics but not running economy

Daniel H. Craighead, Nick Lehecka, Deborah L. King

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

Craighead, DH, Lehecka, N, and King, DL. A novel running mechanic's class changes kinematics but not running economy. J Strength Cond Res 28(11): 3137-3145, 2014-A novel method of running technique instruction, Midstance to Midstance Running (MMR), was studied to determine how MMR affected kinematics and running economy (RE) of recreational runners. An experimental pre-post randomized groups design was used. Participants (n = 18) were recreational runners who ran at least 3 days a week and 5 km per run. All testing was performed on a treadmill at 2.8 m·s21. The intervention group (n = 9) completed 8 weeks of instruction in MMR; the control group (n = 9) continued running without instruction. The MMR group showed significant decreases in stride length (SL) (p = 0.02) and maximum knee flexion velocity in stance (p = 0.01), and a significant increase in stride rate (SR) (p = 0.02) after 8 weeks. No significant changes were found in heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, or RE. Midstance to Midstance Running was effective in changing SR and SL, but was not effective in changing other kinematic variables such as foot contact position and maximum knee flexion during swing. Midstance to Midstance Running did not affect RE. Evidence suggests that MMR may be an appropriate instructional method for recreational runners trying to decrease SL and increase SR.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)3137-3145
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of strength and conditioning research
Volume28
Issue number11
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 1 2014
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
Copyright © 2014 National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.

Keywords

  • Biomechanics
  • Movement
  • Oxygen consumption
  • Physiology
  • Stride length
  • Stride rate

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