The Influence of Plantar Short Foot Muscle Exercises on the Lower Extremity Muscle Strength and Power in Proximal Segments of the Kinematic Chain in Long-Distance Runners

Abstract EN

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of plantar short foot muscles exercises on the performance of lower extremities in long-distance runners.

47 long-distance runners aged 21-45 years took part in this study.

The participants were divided into two groups based on baseline measurement of Foot Posture Index: Group 1 (n=27) with neutral foot and Group 2 (n=20) with slight and increased pronation.

The participants performed the exercises daily for 6 weeks.

The knee flexors and extensors torque, work, and power on Isokinetic Dynamometer and Running-Based Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST) were checked at baseline and after 6 weeks of exercises.

Higher values of peak torque of knee flexors were observed.

This change was statistically significant at high load with angular velocity 90°/s (73.55 Nm at baseline and 89.05 Nm after 6 weeks) and 160°/s (69.40 Nm at baseline and 79.00 Nm after 6 weeks) in Group 2.

In both groups higher values of maximum power were noted.

Participants in Group 2 achieved lower values in each 35-metre run time and higher values of power.

In Group 2 there was significant improvement of total time (35.26 s at baseline and 34.79 s after 6 weeks) compared to Group 1 (37.33 s at baseline and 37.56 s after 6 weeks).

Exercises strengthening short foot muscles may improve energy transfer through body segments and increase strength and values of generated power.

They should be included as a part of daily training programme of runners.

This study was registered in the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR).

Registration number: ACTRN12615001200572.