Ability of a Functional Motion Analysis to Predict Running Economy at 10k Race Pace in Trained Male Runners: A Pilot Investigation

Abstract

Introduction: Runners have long searched for ways to increase performance and for the ability to quantify these increases in performance. VO2max has long been associated with running performance. Running economy is another performance measure associated with performance, which of late has received increased attention in its influence on race performance. The purpose of this study was to explore the ability of a FMA to predict running economy at 10k race pace in trained male runners by identifying strength imbalances between the legs. Methods: 12 healthy, young, non-injured, trained male runners were recruited for participation. Subjects first completed a FMA at Dynamic Athletics and then within one week completed both an 8 min Running Economy test at 10k race pace and VO2max test. During the RE test, motion capture technology was utilized to measure aspects of gait. Results: No strong relationships were identified between strength imbalances identified in the FMA and running economy at 10k race pace. Few strong relationships were discovered between aspects of the FMA, metabolic and gait measures from the RE and VO2max testing. No strong relationships were identified between strength imbalances in legs from a FMA and stride imbalances at 10k race pace, nor were any strong relationships identified between stride imbalances and running economy at 10k race pace. Conclusion: Based on this investigation, strength imbalances between the legs identified by a FMA do not have any strong relationships with stride imbalances or running economy at 10k race pace, nor is there a strong relationship between stride imbalances and running economy at 10k race pace.