Abstract
To investigate the effect of a transition program of simulated barefoot running (SBR)
on running kinematics and foot-strike patterns, female recreational athletes (n=9,
age 29±3 yrs) without SBR experience gradually increased running distance in Vibram
FiveFingers SBR footwear over 12 weeks. Matched controls (n=10, age 30±4 yrs) continued
running in standard footwear. A 3-D motion analysis of treadmill running at 12 km/h−1 was performed by both groups, barefoot and shod, pre- and post-intervention. Post-intervention
data indicated a more-forefoot strike pattern in the SBR group compared to controls;
both running barefoot (P>0.05), and shod (P<0.001). When assessed barefoot, there
were significant kinematic differences across time in the SBR group for ankle flexion
angle at toe-off (P<0.01). When assessed shod, significant kinematic changes occurred
across time, for ankle flexion angles at foot-strike (P<0.001) and toe-off (P<0.01),
and for range of motion (ROM) in the absorptive phase of stance (P<0.01). A knee effect
was recorded in the SBR group for flexion ROM in the absorptive phase of stance (P<0.05).
No significant changes occurred in controls. Therefore, a 12-week transition program
in SBR could assist athletes seeking a more-forefoot strike pattern and “barefoot”
kinematics, regardless of preferred footwear.
Key words
biomechanics - minimalist shoes - kinematics - training - transition
