The Effects of Two Biofeedback Interventions on Running Pattern in Recreational Runner: Feasibility Study

Abstract

Running is a popular and extremely accessible activities, whether recreational or competitive, enjoyed by people worldwide and its health benefits are remarkable. However, the percentage of running injuries (RI) is quite high, especially in recreational joggers. RI are undoubtedly multifactorial but the biomechanic aspects play a key role in injury onset and development. Considering this, the purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two types of biofeedback interventions on running pattern: with sensorized insoles (GI) and with video-analysis (GA). 30 recreational runners (age 31.4 ± 10.9 years) were randomly assigned to the biofeedback intervention + sensorized insole (n = 15, GI) or video-analysis (n = 15, GA) groups. The kinematics parameters as cadence, step length, ground contact time, flight time and step width were collected before and after the intervention at the same self-selected speed. The acquisitions were carried out on sensorized treadmill for 90 s each followed by 5 min passive rest. Prior to the intervention participants were asked to complete a 51 open question and multiple-choice items to assess epidemiological data and information about past muscular-skeletal injuries and current painful symptoms. All variables were evaluated at the baseline and following the biofeedback intervention, done immediately after the first acquisition. The statistical method used for data analysis was T-Test or Mann Whitney U-Test for parametric and non-parametric groups. Results: After the biofeedback intervention, the groups did not show statistically significant variations on kinematics variables. Kinematics outcomes remained similar to the baseline values. This intervention study aims to provide a better understanding of the biofeedback efficacy on running techniques in order to tailored more individualized exercise programs, however, findings seem to discourage this type of approach since no correction of the underlying biomechanical defect occurred.

File Type: docx
Categories: Treadmill
Scroll to Top