Mechanical analysis of running: Running cycle comprises a stance phase, where one foot is in contact with the ground while the other leg is swinging followed by a float phase where both legs are *** the ground.
(a) Foot strike: The first contact of the foot with the ground is made by heels. Then mid foot or whole foot strikes, the body leads to controlled landing. At this point the whole body balances on one leg. The most important event during foot strike is to absorb the initial impact of the foot striking the ground through:
(i) rapid extension of the hip
(ii) flexion of knee
(iii) internal rotation of the tibia
(iv) air cushioned shoes
Heel pad has better ability to absorb initial impact than other adipose tissues. Now the supporting leg leaves the ground before the opposite leg comes into contact with the ground.
(b) Swing phase: It reduces the moment of inertia by lifting knees and hip close to the body. The non-supporting leg swings past stationary leg and becomes ready for the next step. The distance of the body moving in the air depends on:
(i) the angle of take-***
(ii) the speed of body projection at take ***
(iii) hip flexion
