Effects of midsole cushioning stiffness on Achilles tendon stretch during running

摘要

Footwear midsole material can have a direct influence on running performance. However, the exact mechanism of improved performance remains unknown. When running, elastic energy is thought to be stored within the muscle tendon unit and used to support and propel the body forward (Alexander, 1988). Also, the plantarflexor muscles are the largest contributor to mechanical work during running (Hamner & Delp, 2013), and the force generated by these muscles stretch the Achilles tendon (AT). Since the AT plays a significant role in running (Lorimer & Hume, 2014), it is possible that a performance enhancing mechanism may involve influences on the AT and it is speculated that changes to midsole stiffness may influence the energy return from the AT, reducing the metabolic cost.