Treadmill based reference running data for healthy subjects is dependent on speed and morphological parameters

Abstract

Objective: To obtain spatiotemporal and dynamic running parameters of healthy participants and to identify relationships between running parameters, speed, and physical characteristics.

Method: A dynamometric treadmill was used to collect running data among 417 asymptomatic subjects during speeds ranging from 10 to 24km/h. Spatiotemporal and dynamic running parameters were calculated and measured.

Results: Results of the analyses showed that assessing running parameters is dependent on running speed. Body height correlated with stride length (r=0.5), cadence (r=-0.5) and plantar forefoot force (r=0.6). Body mass also had a strong relationship to plantar forefoot forces at 14 and 24km/h and plantar midfoot forces at 14 and 24km/h.

Conclusion: This reference data base can be used in the kinematic and kinetic evaluation of running under a wide range of speeds.

Keywords: Anatomy; Biomechanics; Musculoskeletal disorders; Sports ergonomics.