Running Sessions in Trained Distance Runners

Researching footwear's impact on exertion, fatigue, soreness, and muscle inflammation after intense run

Dr. Maxime Paquette, professor in College of Health Science, in collaboration with several graduate students, will investigate the influence of shoe midsole foam (the foam directly below the feet) materials on muscle fatigue, soreness, and damage following intense running sessions in trained distance runners.

In recent years, advanced footwear technology has led to drastic improvements in distance running performance. A number of footwear advancements have contributed to improved running performance, but current scientific evidence suggests that the type of midsole foam may be the largest contributing factor. Not only does advanced midsole foam, which acts like a “spring”, reduce the energetic demands of running (i.e., the fuel economy of runners), it may also improve the recovery time of runners following intense or demanding running training or races. With faster recovery times, runners can add more training to their programs and therefore, further improve their performance.

This will be the second footwear-related study in partnership with New Balance Research Labs for Paquette. These research efforts have helped advanced current knowledge and evidence on running footwear characteristics and will provide novel evidence to coaches and athletes on footwear selection for training and competition.

For more information on this research, contact Paquette at mrpqette@memphis.edu.