RUNNER’S STRIDE ANALYSIS UNDER FIELD CONDITIONS

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyse the strides of middle distance runners using a new ambulatory gait analysis system adapted to field and track conditions. Nine middle distance runners performed a locomotor test which consisted of three step-tests close to their anaerobic threshold with an increase of 0.5 m.s-1 between each step-test. The increase in velocity was correlated to an increase in stride length (p< 0.001), and a decrease of stride symmetry and regularity (p< 0.05) and a decrease of left and right stance duration (p< 0.05). Wavelet analysis provided a pictorial description of gait particularities which could be of interest for trainers or practitioners.