Running Shoes Research Articles

Effects of a foot strengthening program on foot muscle morphology and running mechanics: A proof-of-concept, single-blind randomized controlled trial

ObjectivesTo investigate the effects of a foot training program on muscle morphology and strength as well as running biomechanics in healthy recreational runners. DesignProof-of-concept, single-blind randomized controlled trial. SettingsRunners were allocated to a control (CG) or an intervention (IG) group. The intervention focused on strengthening the intrinsic foot muscles and their activation during weight-bearing activities. All participants were assessed at baseline and after 8-weeks. ParticipantsTwenty-eight healthy recreational long-distance runners not habituated to minimalist running shoes or barefoot running. Main outcomes measuresOutcomes were hallux and toes strength; foot function, cross-sectional area and volume of the abductor hallucis (ABH), abductor digiti minimi (ABV), flexor digitorum brevis (FDB), and flexor hallucis brevis; medial longitudinal arch range of motion and stiffness; vertical and antero-posterior propulsive impulses during running. ResultsCompared to the CG, an increase was found in the IG for the volume of all muscles investigated and for vertical propulsive impulse during running. Correlations were found between vertical propulsive impulse and volume of ABH(r = 0.40), ABV(r = 0.41), and FDB(r = 0.69). ConclusionThe foot exercise protocol effectively increased intrinsic foot muscle volume and propulsive forces in recreational runners. This shows that intrinsic muscle strengthening affects running mechanics and suggests that it may improve running performance.

Number of Shoes Tested During a Running Shoe Mass Perception Task May Not Influence Accuracy

Commercially available running shoes differ in terms of their relative masses. It is unclear how well consumers may be able to judge mass differences from wearing alone, though previous studies suggest that perceptual outcomes may be influenced by experimental design factors such as the length of time worn. The purpose of this study was to investigate how the number of shoes used in a testing session impacts wearers' mass perceptual accuracy. Forty-eight young adult males ran for 5 min in 4 pairs of shoes (their own running shoes plus 3 unfamiliar pairs) before being asked whether an unfamiliar running shoe was heavier or lighter than their own, and to indicate perceptions of shoe heaviness (mass), comfort, stability, and temperature using visual analogue scales (VAS). A subset (n=18) was also asked to provide global rank orderings after wearing all 4 pairs of shoes. Participants were 67% accurate in the heavier/lighter task and 64% accurate in the global rank order task. Global rank order scores and VAS heaviness marks were significantly and positively correlated. Mass accuracy scores (n=48) were then compared to a previous study (n=25) performed by the same investigators using the same methods but with 6 pairs of shoes instead of 4. No difference in accuracy scores for either the heavier/lighter comparisons or global rank order scores between the study populations was found, suggesting that the number of test shoes may not influence mass perception accuracy.

Somatosensory Perception of Running Shoe Mass may be influenced by Extended Wearing Time or Inclusion of a Personal Reference Shoe, Depending on Testing Method

Somatosensory Perception of Running Shoe Mass may be influenced by Extended Wearing Time or Inclusion of a Personal Reference Shoe, Depending on Testing Method

Just Find It: The Mymo Approach to Recommend Running Shoes

Wearing inappropriate running shoes may lead to unnecessary injury through continued strain upon the lower extremities; potentially damaging a runner's performance. Many technologies have been developed for accurate shoe recommendation, which centre on running gait analysis. However, these often require supervised use in the laboratory/shop or exhibit too high a cost for personal use. This work addresses the need for a deployable, inexpensive product with the ability to accurately assess running shoe-type recommendation. This was achieved through quantitative analysis of the running gait from 203 individuals through use of a tri-axial accelerometer and tri-axial gyroscope-based wearable (Mymo). In combination with a custom neural network to provide the shoe-type classifications running within the cloud, we experience an accuracy of 94.6% in classifying the correct type of shoe across unseen test data.

Utilization of Three-Dimensional Motion Analysis in the Development of Running Shoes

Utilization of Three-Dimensional Motion Analysis in the Development of Running Shoes

Development of Running Shoe

Development of Running Shoe

Biomechanical effects of continuous loop running in comparison to discontinuous runway running on locomotion and running shoe characterization

Running and running shoe biomechanics are usually measured in laboratory settings, capturing discontinuous running trials. Continuous running measured outdoors doesn’t allow comprehensive measurement equipment due to limited technology. This research compared biomechanical effects of continuous loop and discontinuous runway running on locomotion and running shoe characterisation. Twenty-two runners performed eight trials in three shoe conditions in a runway and a loop laboratory setting, while capturing ground reaction forces and lower limb kinematics. Running mode and shoe variable magnitudes and intra-participant variability, means were compared for main and interaction effects (p < 0.05) by a 2 × 3 within-participants repeated measures analysis of variance, and effect size estimation. Kinetic and kinematic variables indicated biomechanical effects induced by running mode. Continuous loop running significantly decreased ground contact time (241.31–234.47 ms), and braking force (0.37–0.35 bw). It showed a significantly flatter and inverted foot-strike at touchdown by reducing sagittal shoe ground angle (20.27–16.69°), and increasing ankle inversion angle (5.50–6.67°). Continuous loop running significantly increased intra-participant variability in ankle dorsiflexion (9.49–12.78) and maximal eversion angle (12.70–17.36). Kinetic and kinematics indicated biomechanical effects induced by running shoes, shoe classification was similar between modes. Running mode influences biomechanics, whilst shoe classification remains similar. Anterior-posterior braking force is overestimated in discontinuous runway running, combined with increased variability suggesting an inconsistent foot-strike. Variability at the ankle joint was seen to increase during continuous loop running, indicating a more rigid ankle complex during discontinuous runway running. Our findings suggest that continuous loop running should be used when precise absolute variable magnitudes are required while runway running tests appear sufficient for general comparative shoe evaluation.

Initial Response of Mature, Experienced Runners to Barefoot Running: Transition to Forefoot Strike

Forefoot strike has been advocated for many runners because of the relatively lower impact and push-off forces compared to a heel strike. The purpose of this study was to explore the ability of mature (> 30 years old), experienced runners to transition from a heel foot strike to a forefoot strike when first introduced to barefoot running on a treadmill. We hypothesized: 1) mature runners who heel strike while wearing traditional training shoes would persist in heel striking immediately following a switch to barefoot, 2) mean shoe heel-to-toe drop would be significantly greater in runners who persist in heel striking when running barefoot compared to those who transition to a forefoot strike pattern, and 3) there would be a significant decrease in heel striking in the barefoot condition as running speeds increased. This was a controlled crossover laboratory study. Thirty-three experienced runners (average 23.4 miles per week) with an average age of 45.6 years were recruited for this study. The participants first ran in their standard running shoes and subsequently barefoot. A motion capture system was utilized to detect and analyze any transition from heel strike to forefoot strike made by study participants. Of the 26 participants who were classified as heel strike runners in their running shoes, 50% (13/26, p = 0.001) transitioned to forefoot strike when changing from running in shoes to running barefoot. The injuries associated with transition from standard running shoes to barefoot running or minimalist shoes may be influenced by the persistence of heel striking in mature runners. Older experienced runners may have limited ability to transition from heel to forefoot striking when first introduced to barefoot running. Mature runners should be cautious when beginning a minimalist shoe or barefoot running regimen.

EFFECT OF CONSUMPTION VALUES ON CONSUMER SATISFACTION AND BRAND COMMITMENT: INVESTIGATING FUNCTIONAL, EMOTIONAL, SOCIAL, AND EPISTEMIC VALUES IN THE RUNNING SHOES MARKET

Firms can acquire sustainable competitive advantages by managing brand relationships and consumption values. However, previous studies do not compare consumption value with consumer satisfaction and brand commitment. Consumption value theory postulates that functional, emotional, social, and epistemic values enhance brand relationships. However, the most effective element of consumption values on consumer satisfaction or brand commitment is different. Specifically regarding running shoes, this article empirically compares functional, emotional, social, and epistemic values with consumer satisfaction and brand commitment. Using a mediated–moderation regression model, this article collected 844 Japanese samples from a marathon in Kobe, Japan, and tested how multiple consumption values affected consumer satisfaction and brand commitment, moderated by age. The results show that consumption values except epistemic value have positive effects on consumer satisfaction and brand commitment. In particular, this article uncovers the moderating effect of age in social values and consumer satisfaction. Specifically, social values affect consumer satisfaction when consumers are under 39 years old. This paper also found that functional value and social value have the strongest effect on consumer satisfaction and brand commitment, respectively, compared with other values. Contravening consumption value theory, our data suggests that epistemic value impedes brand commitment. Keywords: Consumption Values Theory, Consumer Satisfaction, Brand Commitment, Running Shoes JEL Classifications: M10, M21, M31 DOI: https://doi.org/10.32479/irmm.8713

Seven Tips to Effective Running Shoe Sizing.

Seven Tips to Effective Running Shoe Sizing.

Differences in Mechanical Midsole Characteristics of Running Shoes do not Influence Physiological Variables in Aerobic and Anaerobic Running.

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of footwear stiffness and energy loss on oxygen uptake and heart rate in athletes running under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Four footwear conditions with identical outsoles, insoles, upper materials, but different mechanical properties regarding polyurethane midsole materials were investigated. Respective midsole material characteristics were selected to represent a wide range of running shoes. The test procedure for eighteen well‐trained male runners was divided into three treadmill testing sessions: an incremental ramp protocol to estimate the individual ventilatory threshold (day 1), a test with 6‐minute stages in each shoe at 70% (aerobic, day 2) and 102% (anaerobic, day 3) of the participant’s ventilatory threshold. For oxygen uptake and the heart rate, no significant differences between footwear conditions were found for either running condition. Furthermore, no significant relationships between physiological variables and mechanical midsole characteristics were found. The wide range of significant stiffness differences in the rearfoot (52.7 N/mm) and forefoot areas (50.7 N/mm), as well as significant differences of the shoe midsole material energy loss in the rearfoot (18.8%) and forefoot areas (10.7%) were too low to influence physiological variables significantly when running below and slightly above the ventilatory threshold. It seems that shoe mass and shoe comfort can influence physiological variables more than the mechanical midsole characteristics of stiffness and energy loss. These results may have practical implications for shoe manufacturers, coaches, and athletes, alike.

EP1.16-08 Behobiamediopulmon: Putting Face and Running Shoes on Patients with Lung Cancer

EP1.16-08 Behobiamediopulmon: Putting Face and Running Shoes on Patients with Lung Cancer

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in sports injury research: authors—please report the compliance with the intervention

BackgroundIn randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of interventions that aim to prevent sports injuries, the intention-to-treat principle is a recommended analysis method and one emphasised in the Consolidated Standards of Reporting...

Association Between Running Shoe Characteristics and Lower Extremity Injuries in United States Military Academy Cadets

Background: Running-related overuse injuries are very common among recreational runners, with the reported annual injury rates ranging from 39% to 85%. Relatively few large prospective cohort studies have been conducted to investigate injury risk associated with different running shoe characteristics, and the results of the existing studies are often contradictory. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose was to investigate the relationship between running shoe characteristics and lower extremity musculoskeletal injury. It was hypothesized that the risk of injury would be increased in individuals wearing shoes with minimal torsional stiffness and heel height compared with those wearing shoes with greater levels of torsional stiffness and heel height. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: The study included 1025 incoming cadets. Shoe torsional stiffness and heel height were calculated and recorded. Demographic data were recorded and analyzed as potential covariates. Lower extremity injuries sustained over 9 weeks during cadet basic training were documented by use of the Armed Forces Health Longitudinal Technology Application and the Cadet Illness and Injury Tracking System. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were estimated, with time to incident lower extremity injury as the primary outcome by level of the independent predictor variables. Risk factors or potential covariates were carried forward into multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models. Absolute and relative risk reduction and numbers needed to treat were calculated. Results: Approximately 18.1% of participants incurred a lower extremity injury. Cadets wearing shoes with moderate lateral torsional stiffness were 49% less likely to incur any type of lower extremity injury and 52% less likely to incur an overuse lower extremity injury than cadets wearing shoes with minimal lateral torsional stiffness, both of which were statistically significant observations. Injury risk was similar among cadets wearing shoes with minimal and extreme lateral torsional stiffness. Conclusion: Shoes with mild to moderate lateral torsional stiffness may be appropriate in reducing risk of lower extremity injury in cadets. Shoes with minimal lateral torsional stiffness should be discouraged in this population.

Does habitual rear-foot strike pattern with modern running shoes affect the muscle strength of the longitudinal arch?

Does habitual rear-foot strike pattern with modern running shoes affect the muscle strength of the longitudinal arch?

Differences in running biomechanics between a maximal, traditional, and minimal running shoe

ObjectivesPrevious studies comparing shoes based on the amount of midsole cushioning have generally used shoes from multiple manufacturers, where factors outside of stack height may contribute to observed biomechanical differences in running mechanics between shoes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare ground reaction forces and ankle kinematics during running between three shoes (maximal, traditional, and minimal) from the same manufacturer that only varied in stack height. DesignWithin-participant repeated measures MethodsTwenty recreational runners ran overground in the laboratory in three shoe conditions (maximal, traditional, minimal) while three-dimensional kinematic and kinetic data were collected using a 3D motion capture system and two embedded force plates. Repeated measures ANOVAs (α=.05) compared biomechanical data between shoes. ResultsWhile the loading rate was significantly greater in the minimal shoe compared to the maximal shoe, no other differences were seen for the ground reaction force variables. Peak eversion was greater in the maximal and minimal shoe compared to the traditional shoe, while eversion duration and eversion at toe-off were greater in the maximal shoe. ConclusionsPreviously cited differences in ground reaction force parameters between maximal and traditional footwear may be due to factors outside of midsole stack height. The eversion mechanics in the maximal shoes from this study may place runners at a greater risk of injury. Disagreement between previous studies indicates that more research on maximal running shoes is needed.

Morphology-Related Foot Function Analysis: Implications for Jumping and Running

Barefoot and shod running has received increased attention in recent years, however, the influence of morphology-related foot function has not been explored. This study aimed to investigate morphology-related jumping and running biomechanical functions in habitually barefoot and shod males. A total of 90 barefoot males (Indians) and 130 shod males (Chinese), with significant forefoot and toe morphology differences, participated in a vertical jump and running test to enable the collection of kinematic and kinetic data. The difference of pressure distribution in the hallux and forefoot was shown while jumping and running. The unrestricted forefoot and toes of the barefoot group presented flexible movement and leverage functions to expand the forefoot loading area during performance of the two tasks. Findings related to morphology functions, especially in the forefoot and toe may provide useful information for footwear design.

The Purchase Price of Runners’ Sports Apparel: Combining Observational and Survey Data at Running Events

Abstract: The aim of the current study is twofold. First, it investigates the influencing factors of runners’ sports apparel value at a running event. Second, the potential value of observational data in the socioeconomic field is investigated, as this study combines data retrieved by a survey and by visually scanning pictures of event runners. The results demonstrate that visual data gathering methods contribute to explaining sports apparel usage and consumption. For example, it is found that runners who wear a shirt of the running event spent less money on their running shoes and overall sports apparel. From a methodological point of view, it is shown that observation leads to no nonresponse and thus corrects for selection bias. Other advantages (e.g., less selection bias, less recall bias, time-efficiency for research subject, potential automatic computer analysis in future) and disadvantages (e.g., technical, labor intensiveness for researcher, privacy) of visual data are discussed.

Forefoot strike, rear foot strike or running shoes. Does it matter?

The main aim of this article is to provide some insight into evidence-based data in running. The prevalence of a rearfoot strike (RFS) pattern is much more usual than a forefoot strike (FFS) even among elite distance runners. There has been significant pressure on runners to change their running style from RFS to FFS in recent times. Usually, this has been justified by the statement that FFS relates to a lower injury rate. Recent studies have shown however, that this statement is probably not true. Different types of strike pattern have an influence on loading different structures of the lower limbs, but the total incidence of running related injury is the same regardless of the type of foot strike pattern.We want to provide not only an objective view on running technique but also an evidence-based view on the choice of running shoes. There are many recommendations to consider when choosing running shoes, especially in running stores, but only a few of them are supported by research.This article is not a meta-analysis but it provides some evidence based information about running styles and running shoes.

Spasticity reduction in children with cerebral palsy is not associated with reduced energy during walking

Biomechanical alterations during running and hopping in people with Achilles tendinopathy (AT) may provide treatment and prevention targets. This review identifies and synthesises research evaluating biomechanical alterations among people with AT during running, jumping and hopping.MEDLINE, EMBASE, CiNAHL and SPORTDiscus were searched in July 2018 for case control, cross-sectional and prospective studies investigating kinematics, kinetics, plantar pressures and neuromuscular activity in AT participants during running or hopping. Study quality was assessed with a modified version of the Downs and Black quality checklist, and evidence grading applied.16 studies reported 249 outcomes, of which 17% differed between groups. Reduced peroneus longus (standardized mean difference [95%CI]; −0.53 [−0.98, −0.09]) and medial gastrocnemius (−0.60 [−1.05, −0.15]) amplitude in AT runners versus control was found (limited evidence). Increased hip adduction impulse 1.62 [0.69, 2.54], hip peak external rotation moment (1.55 [0.63, 2.46] and hip external rotation impulse (1.45 [0.55, 2.35]) was found in AT runners versus control (limited evidence). Reduced anterior (−0.94 [−1.64, −0.24] and greater lateral (−0.92 [−1.61, −0.22]) displacement of plantar pressure preceded AT in runners (limited evidence). Delayed onsets of gluteus medius (1.95 [1.07, 2.83] and gluteus maximus (1.26 [0.48, 2.05] and shorter duration of gluteus maximus activation (−1.41 [−2.22, −0.61] was found during shod running in the AT group versus control (limited evidence). Earlier offset time of gluteus maximus (−1.03 [−1.79, −0.27] and shorter duration of activation of gluteus medius (−0.18 [−0.24, −0.12] during running in AT runners versus control was found (limited evidence). Reduced leg stiffness was found in the affected side during submaximal hopping (−0.39 [−0.79, −0.00]) (limited evidence).This review identified potential biomechanical treatment targets in people with AT. The efficacy of treatments targeting these biomechanics should be assessed.PROSPERO registration number: CRD42016048636.