Run S.M.A.R.T.
Menu
Login
  • Custom Training Plans
  • Private Coaching
  • Dr. Jack Daniels
  • Running Calculator
  • Coaching Staff
  • News & Updates
  • Contact Us

Science on the Run: Our Body’s Wise Approach to Running

February 19, 2015 By Run S.M.A.R.T. In Biomechanics, Injury Prevention/Treatment /  
EdWhit

Multiple World-Record Holder Ed Whitlock, Canada.com

Linking current research to running

By Nikki Reiter

Like younger runners, many older runners are greatly concerned with suffering an injury. As we age, our bodies are susceptible to more running injuries, perhaps due to other existing injuries, reduced flexibility or reduced muscle strength. A recently published article investigated whether ‘coordination variability’ in running mechanics is lower in older runners.

In an uninjured state, a runner has multiple options for movement – in other words high ‘coordination variability’ for movement patterns. However, once injured, range of motion is limited and this can affect whole body mechanics. Low ‘coordination variability’ may be an indicator of decreased ability of the body to adapt to changing situations, and also the potential for more repetitive stress on lower body structures as a result.

Here’s how it went:  Younger (18-35 years) and older (45-65 years) runners were matched for mileage, height and body mass. Their gait was analyzed at a running speed of 3.5 m/s (about 8 minute miles). Joint angles and moments (how much the joint is resisting flexion/extension) were compared between the groups, as well as ‘coordination variability.’

The result:  Coordination variability was similar between the two groups, thus providing both groups of runners with a similar ability to prevent injury. However, there were some differences in the way these two groups moved. Greater hip range of motion and reduced ankle moments in older runners may indicate a strategy of changing the typical shock-absorption distribution between the ankle and hip joints.

What this means:  The authors suggest that since runners appear to maintain their movement patterns with increasing age, running itself may be what is keeping them healthy!

A final comment:  Keep running! If you’re concerned about your ability to be a lifelong runner, take the time now to ensure you are running with proper mechanics.

—

Nikki Reiter is the Laboratory Coordinator in the School of Health and Exercise Sciences at the University of British Columbia Okanagan in Kelowna, BC, Canada. With a master’s degree in Biomechanics and as a trained exercise physiologist, she ensures students are taking the scientific approach to training through their lab experiences. Additionally, Nikki offers online gait analysis through Run Right Gait Analysis. Visit her website www.run-right.ca for more information.

Tags:
aginggaithip range of motioninjury preventionNikki Reiter
Burned
What's Your VDOT?

Archives

  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • July 2015
  • June 2015
  • May 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • February 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • November 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
  • December 2013
  • November 2013
  • October 2013
  • August 2013
  • July 2013
  • June 2013
  • May 2013
  • April 2013
  • March 2013
  • February 2013
  • January 2013
  • December 2012
  • November 2012
  • October 2012
  • September 2012
  • August 2012
  • July 2012
  • June 2012
  • May 2012
  • April 2012
  • March 2012
  • February 2012
  • January 2012
  • December 2011
  • November 2011
  • October 2011
  • September 2011
  • August 2011
  • July 2011
  • June 2011
  • May 2011
  • April 2011
  • March 2011
  • February 2011
  • January 2011
  • December 2010
  • November 2010
  • October 2010
  • September 2010
  • August 2010
  • July 2010
  • June 2010
  • May 2010
  • April 2010
  • March 2010
  • February 2010
  • January 2010
  • December 2009
  • November 2009
  • October 2009
  • September 2009
  • August 2009
  • July 2009
  • June 2009
  • May 2009
  • April 2009
  • March 2009
  • February 2009
  • January 2009
  • November 2008
  • October 2008
  • September 2008
  • May 2008
  • April 2008
  • March 2008
  • February 2008
  • January 2008
  • November 2007

Meta

  • Log in
All rights reserved.