Stryd biomechanical parameters as indicators of running economy and performance

Abstract

The interplay of biomechanical and neuromuscular aspects aids in the conversion of power production in running performance, and when combined with metabolic factors, these aspects may lead to improved running economy (RE). Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the association between the Stryd Power Meter foot pod metrics with RE and performance. Fifteen high-caliber male athletes completed two treadmill running sessions. First, RE was determined at 10 and 12 km/h. Second, two all-out efforts of nine and three minute duration were completed. At 10 km/h, the simple and stepwise multiple linear regression analysis revealed that form power (FP) was the best RE predictor (adjusted R2 = 0.464; p = 0.005) followed by vertical oscillation (VO) (R2 = 0.424; p = 0.005) and ground contact time (GCT) (R2 = 0.363; p = 0.010). At 12 km/h, such regressions confirmed that GCT was the best RE indicator (adjusted R2 = 0.222; p = 0.043) followed by FP (adjusted R2 = 0.213; p = 0.047). During the nine and three minute all-out effort sessions, GCT was the best performance predictor (R2 = 0.491; p = 0.002 and R2 = 0.380; p = 0.014, respectively). The biomechanical factors of GCT and FP are good indicators of RE and running performance.