Resumen de Effect of the type of footwear on biomechanical parameters in the foot contact phase in middle-distance runners

Carlos Zingsem, Marcos Gutiérrez Dávila, Francisco Javier Rojas Ruiz

• The aim of this study is to determine the effect of two types of running shoes: standard training shoes and racing shoes, on kinematic and kinetic parameters of the foot contact phase in middle-distance runners. Thirteen male athletes with an experience in national and international competition have participated. Data was collected using a force platform operating at 500 Hz, and three video cameras operating at 210 Hz. An electronic signal was used to synchronize the temporary registration systems. Participants passed through all experimental conditions, one of them using their racing shoes and the other using their standard training shoes. Runners were informed to place their dominant foot in the force platform, located on one of the lanes of the running track. Running speed was stablished at two levels: reduced and competition velocity, respectively. Results have demonstrated that wearing standard training shoes promote a heel strike pattern, whereas wearing racing shoes promote a midfoot strike and a greater angular displacement of the ankle joint. Data relating to horizontal component of the ground reaction forces allow us to state that at low running speeds, standard training shoes are more efficient than racing shoes.