Effect of eccentric training on sagittal plane lower limb kinematics and kinetics in non-habitual forefoot runners

BACKGROUND : Runners not habituated to the forefoot strike pattern may require specific strengthening of plantar flexor muscles to prevent injuries. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of eccentric training for ankle plantar flexors on the kinetic and kinematic parameters of forefoot strike running in individuals not habituated to this type of foot strike. METHODS: Twenty-four healthy (12 men, 12 women), 18-25 years of age who were not habituated to forefoot strike running were randomly divided into 2 groups: an experimental group (eccentric training for plantar flexors performed using an isokinetic dynamometer, 3 times a week for 8 weeks) and a control group (no intervention). Kinetic data (ground reaction force) and kinematic data (angles of the ankle, knee and hip in the sagittal plane) were recorded while the subjects performed the forefoot strike running pattern at their preferred speed before and after a period of 8 weeks. RESULTS: Participants showed a reduction of 20% in the magnitude of the impact as well as an increase of approximately 33% in the plantar flexion angle and an increase of 14% in hip flexion (p CONCLUSIONS: Eccentric training generated measurable changes in the forefoot strike pattern and reduced the impact assessed by ground reaction force.