WORK-ENERGY ANALYSIS OF TRIATHLETES RUNNING UNDER BIKE/RUN AND RUN ONLY CONDITIONS

Abstract

INTRODUCTION The biomechanics of running have been well documented over the past several decades and considerable material on both the kinematics and kinetics of competitive and recreational running is available. This extends to the effiCiency or economy of running but unfortunately, it appears, not to the efficiency of the running rriathlete. The triathlon is a rapidly developing competitive sport requiring proficiency in swimming, cycling, and running. As such, triathletes are required to run long distances following extended periods of other forms of exercise. Specifically, a long distance run normally follows a cycling race. At present, it appears that little research has focused on the effects of this prior activity on the mechanics of the run portion of a triathlon. No evidence has been found of attempts to look at the work-energy characteristics of the run portion of a triathlon. The purpose of the study, therefore, was to determine if a triathlete's running mechanics are altered at various intervals during a 10 km run or if they are altered by having just completed a 40 km bike ride. SpeCifically, an attempt was made to focus on both the kinematics of triathlete running as well as the work-energy characteristics of the running motion at various points during a run and in runs made under different conditions.