Abstract:

In this study, we examined the consequences of a global alteration in running technique on running kinematics and running economy in triathletes. Sixteen sub-elite triathletes were pre and post tested for running economy and running kinematics at 215 and 250?m?·?min -1 . The members of the treatment group ( n ??=??8) were exposed to 12 weeks of instruction in the “pose method” of running, while the members of the control group ( n ??=??8) maintained their usual running technique. After the treatment period, the experimental group demonstrated a significant decrease in mean stride length (from 137.25?±?7.63?cm to 129.19?±?7.43?cm; P ?<?0.05), a post-treatment difference in vertical oscillation compared with the control group (6.92?±?1.00 vs. 8.44?±?1.00?cm; P ?<?0.05) and a mean increase in submaximal absolute oxygen cost (from 3.28?±?0.36?l?·?min -1 to 3.53?±?0.43?l?·?min -1 ; P ?<?0.01). The control group exhibited no significant changes in either running kinematics or oxygen cost. The global change in running mechanics associated with 12 weeks of instruction in the pose method resulted in a decrease in stride length, a reduced vertical oscillation in comparison with the control group and a decrease of running economy in triathletes.

Keywords: Pose method; stride length; stride rate; support time; triathlon; vertical oscillation

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1080/02640410400022003

Affiliations: 1: Department of Exercise Science, Health Promotion and Recreation, Colorado State University – Pueblo, Pueblo, CO, USA 2: Department of Sports Science and Technology, United States Olympic Committee, Colorado Springs, CO, USA 3: Booz Allen & Hamilton, Falls Church, VA, USA 4: St Francis Xavier University, Montreal, Canada 5: Romanov Academy of Sports Science, Miami, FL, USA