Biomechanics of Running
"An understanding of the biomechanical aspects of running is of interest for a number of reasons: (1) knowledge of the movements of body segments may provide information useful to a basic understanding of the mechanisms of the neuromusculoskeletal system; (2) identification of optimal running mechanics may help improve the performance for athletes of all levels; and (3) knowledge of injury mechanisms related to running may aid in prevention of injuries" (Williams, 1985). Williams covers a general view of running mechanics, but places special emphasis on kinematics of overground and treadmill running, biomechanical measures and, running injuries and fatigue. Even though Williams cites 200 sources, he reports "There is [still] a great need for well-designed investigations of the relationship of biomechanical parameters to performance and injury."
Mann and Hagy (1980) mentioned "as in normal walking, joggers and runners all follow the same basic pattern..." with little if any significant deviation in sagittal plane motion. He continued that as the speed of the gait gradually increased, the overall range of motion of the joints, hip, knee, and ankle increased while the center of gravity was lowered. Elliott and Blanksby (1976) reported that running experience on treadmill was an important factor when the biomechanics of 24 subjects were studied.
During the gait cycle on the treadmill and overground, there are two major phases (Adelaar, 1986; Hamill, et. al., 1995; Mann, et al., 1986; Pink, et al., 1994; Williams, 1985): the support phase (stance) starts at the heel's contact with the ground and continues until the foot leaves the ground (toe-off). The second phase, non-support (swing) starts after toe-off and continues until the same foot again hits the ground. The focus of several major studies (Adelaar, 1986; Hamill, et. al., 1995; Mann, et al., 1980 & 1986; Pink, et al., 1994;) was the hip , knee and ankle. Some typical results of maximum angle change included. Mann, et al., (1986) reported the maximum hip flexion was reached at about two-thirds of the way into the swing phase, and the maximum extension was at or immediately after toe-off. Williams (1985) states " Maximal extension of the knee has been shown to occur prior to contact with the ground." Mann et al., (1986) adds "the knee never fully extended ... throughout the cycle," and also reports plantar flexion reached its maximum just after toe-off... [and] progressive dorsiflexion occurred during swing phase..." (1986).
Since deep water running (DWR) has been and continues to be utilized as an "alternative" to land based running (i.e., running on ground or treadmill), understanding the mechanics of land based running may bring a better insight to whether or not DWR is a suitable choice for the practitioner.
Bibliography
Adelaar, R.S. (1986). The practical biomechanics of running. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 14(6), 497-500.
Elliott, B.C. & Blanksby, B.A. (1976). A cinematography analysis of overground and treadmill running by males and females. Medicine And Science in Sports, 8(2), 84-87.
Hamill, J. & Knutzen, K.M. (1995) Biomechanical basis of human movement. Media, PA.: Williams & Wilkins.
Mann, R.A., Moran, G.T. & Dougherty, S.E. (1986). Comparative electromyography of the lower extremity in jogging, running and sprinting. American Orthopedic Society of Sports Medicine. 14(6), 501-510.
Mann, R.A. & Hagy, J. (1980). Biomechanics of walking, running, and sprinting. American Orthopedic Society of Sports Medicine. 8 (5), 345-350.
Pink, M., Perry, J., & Houglum, P.A. (1994). Lower extremity range of motion in the recreational sport runner. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 22(4), 541-549.
Williams, K.R. (1985). Biomechanics of running. Exercise Sport Science Review. 13, 389-441.
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