Journal
JOURNAL OF SPORT AND HEALTH SCIENCE
Volume 6, Issue 2, Pages 146-153Publisher
SHANGHAI UNIV SPORT
DOI: 10.1016/j.jshs.2017.02.004
Keywords
Epidemiology; Footfall patterns; Forefoot; Ground reaction force; Impacts; Midfoot; Rearfoot; Running economy
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Some researchers, running instructors, and coaches have suggested that the optimal footstrike pattern to improve performance and reduce running injuries is to land using a mid- or forefoot strike. Thus, it has been recommended that runners who use a rearfoot strike would benefit by changing their footstrike although there is little scientific evidence for suggesting such a change. The rearfoot strike is clearly more prevalent. The major reasons often given for changing to a mid- or forefoot strike are (1) it is more economical; (2) there is a reduction in the impact peak and loading rate of the vertical component of the ground reaction force; and (3) there is a reduction in the risk of a running-related injuries. In this paper, we critique these 3 suggestions and provide alternate explanations that may provide contradictory evidence for altering one's footstrike pattern. We have concluded, based on examining the research literature, that changing to a mid- or forefoot strike does not improve running economy, does not eliminate an impact at the foot-ground contact, and does not reduce the risk of running-related injuries. (C) 2017 Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Shanghai University of Sport.
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