A comparison of kinematic Symmetry of lower limbs during Running at different speeds

Abstract

Aim and background: Symmetry and asymmetry are introduced as main critical challenges of human movement. The aim of this study was to compare kinematic Symmetry of lower limbs during running at different speeds. Methods: 28 professional runner (age: 34.75±6.63year) participated in this study voluntarily. Running at three progressive speeds (2.5, 3.5 and 4.5 m.s-1 was conducted by each subject on treadmill while kinematic data were captures at 150 Hz. Peak angle of Hip, knee and ankle in Flexion phase were derived in stance phase of running. The homogeneity of variances assumptions of the dependent variables were tested using the Leven’s test. Independent t tests were conducted to examine the symmetry of hip, knee and ankle peak flexion angle during running in different speeds using SPSS ver. 22 (p<0.05). Results: results of the independent t test showed no significant difference between peak flexion angles of lower joints in every speed. Conclusion: symmetry exists in lower joints’ flexion angle in stance phase during running at the different progressive speeds. Coaches and Biomechanists would achieve benefits of kinematic symmetry of lower joints in order to prevent injuries and running performance optimization.