Title
The Examination of Ankle Joint Motion between Barefoot and Minimalist Running Shoes During Gait Cycles
Publication Date
2013
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Abstract
Studying gait analysis with particular running shoes is extremely important because the ankle and foot serve as the foundation of structural balance, support, and propulsion . In this study Vibram FiveFingers and Nike Free Run minimalist shoes were chosen because of their popularity and uniqueness. During the testing each participant ran 30 s at the speed of 3 m/s on a flat treadmill for the FiveFingers shoe, Free Run shoe, and barefoot condition. The gait cycles of heel strike, mid support and toe off were examined. In this study no statistical significant increase or decrease in dorsiflexion or plantarflexion angles was observed in the Nike Free Run or Vibram FiveFingers in any phase of gait. This study suggests that both types of minimalist footwear do "mimic" barefoot running because they do not hinder a runner's range of motion in the ankle joint while running.
Original Citation
Lloyd, S., & Wu, T. (2013). The Examination of Ankle Joint Motion between Barefoot and Minimalist Running Shoes During Gait Cycles. Proceedings of 31st International Society of Biomechanics in Sports: Chinese Journal of Sports Biomechanics, 5 (Suppl. 2). 92-95.
Virtual Commons Citation
Lloyd, Stephanie and Wu, Tong-Ching Tom (2013). The Examination of Ankle Joint Motion between Barefoot and Minimalist Running Shoes During Gait Cycles. In Movement Arts, Health Promotion and Leisure Studies Faculty Publications. Paper 92.
Available at: https://vc.bridgew.edu/mahpls_fac/92