Elite Sprinter Force Data vs. Simple-Spring Model (video)

Southern Methodist University

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The contemporary view of running mechanics has been heavily influenced by the simple spring-mass model, a theory first formulated in the late 1980s. The spring-mass model assumes the legs work essentially like the compression spring of a pogo stick when in contact with the ground. New research findings from SMU, however, show that this is not the case. While the classic spring model fits non-sprinters, it is not sufficient for understanding the mechanical basis of sprint running performance, say SMU researchers.

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SMU

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