Advanced Footwear Technology in Non-Elite Runners: A Survey of Training Practices and Reported Outcomes

2024

Advanced Footwear Technology in Non-Elite Runners

Sample size: 61 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Bonato Matteo, Marmondi Federica, Faelli Emanuela Luisa, Pedrinelli Chiara, Ferraris Luigi, Filipas Luca, Russo Luca, Peyré-Tartaruga Leonardo Alexandre

Primary Institution: Università degli Studi di Milano

Hypothesis

How does advanced footwear technology affect training practices and reported outcomes in non-elite runners?

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of proper guidance and gradual adaptation to maximize the benefits of advanced footwear technology while minimizing injury risks.

Supporting Evidence

Participants reported a 16% self-reported injury rate, predominantly affecting the calves.
A significant positive correlation was found between years of AFT use and weekly training volume.
A significant negative correlation was found between training volume and the number of weekly sessions using AFT.
74% of participants reported increased forefoot support after using AFT.
66% reported higher calf muscle activation due to AFT use.
62.5% of injuries occurred among those using AFT shoes for up to six sessions per week.

Takeaway

This study looked at how non-elite runners use special shoes that help them run better and found that using these shoes can change how they run and may lead to injuries if not used carefully.

Methodology

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 61 non-elite runners using a structured questionnaire to collect data on demographics, training parameters, footwear usage, and self-reported injuries.