Abstract

The objective of this study is to compare plantar loads during running on different overground surfaces. Fifteen heel-to-toe runners participated in the study. Plantar load data were collected and analyzed using an insole sensor system during running on concrete, synthetic rubber, and grass surfaces at a running speed of 3.8 m/s. Compared with running on concrete surface, running on natural grass showed a lower magnitude of maximum plantar pressure at the total foot (451.8kPa vs. 401.7kPa, p = 0.016), lateral midfoot (175.3kPa vs. 148.0kPa, p = 0.004), central forefoot (366.3kPa vs. 336.8kPa, p = 0.003), and lateral forefoot (290.2kPa vs. 257.9kPa, p = 0.004). Moreover, running on natural grass showed a longer relative contact time compared with running on a concrete surface at the central forefoot (81.9 percent vs. 78.8 percent, p=0.017) and lateral forefoot (75.2 percent vs. 73.1 percent, p=0.007). No significant difference was observed in other multiple comparisons. Different surfaces affected the plantar loads while running. The differences may help us to understand potential injury mechanisms. Verf.-Referat