Biomechanical effects of continuous loop running in comparison to discontinuous runway running on locomotion and running shoe characterization

Abstract Running and running shoe biomechanics are usually measured in laboratory settings, capturing discontinuous running trials. Continuous running measured outdoors doesn’t allow comprehensive measurement equipment due to limited technology. This research compared biomechanical effects of continuous loop and discontinuous runway running on locomotion and running shoe characterisation. Twenty-two runners performed eight trials in three shoe conditions in a runway and a loop laboratory setting, while capturing ground reaction forces and lower limb kinematics. Running mode and shoe variable magnitudes and intra-participant variability, means were compared for main and interaction effects (p < 0.05) by a 2 × 3 within-participants repeated measures analysis of variance, and effect size estimation. Kinetic and kinematic variables indicated biomechanical effects induced by running mode. Continuous loop running significantly decreased ground contact time (241.31–234.47 ms), and braking force (0.37–0.35 bw). It showed a significantly flatter and inverted foot-strike at touchdown by reducing sagittal shoe ground angle (20.27–16.69°), and increasing ankle inversion angle (5.50–6.67°). Continuous loop running significantly increased intra-participant variability in ankle dorsiflexion (9.49–12.78) and maximal eversion angle (12.70–17.36). Kinetic and kinematics indicated biomechanical effects induced by running shoes, shoe classification was similar between modes. Running mode influences biomechanics, whilst shoe classification remains similar. Anterior-posterior braking force is overestimated in discontinuous runway running, combined with increased variability suggesting an inconsistent foot-strike. Variability at the ankle joint was seen to increase during continuous loop running, indicating a more rigid ankle complex during discontinuous runway running. Our findings suggest that continuous loop running should be used when precise absolute variable magnitudes are required while runway running tests appear sufficient for general comparative shoe evaluation.