Effect of Strength and Plyometric Training on Kinematics in Female Novice Runners

Abstract Harrison, K, Williams, DSB III, Darter, BJ, Zernicke, RF, Shall, M, and Finucane, S. Effect of strength and plyometric training on kinematics in female novice runners. J Strength Cond Res 38(6): 1048–1055, 2024—Both running performance and injury have been associated with running kinematics. Plyometric training improves run performance and reduces injury risk in court-sport and field-sport athletes. The aim of this study was to assess longitudinal changes in kinematics in novice runners before and after a typical beginners' running program, compared with those who perform a plyometric intervention before running. Fifty-seven novice female runners were assigned to the control group (8 weeks walking +8 weeks running) or the intervention group (8 weeks strength or plyometric training +8 weeks running). Kinematics were assessed at baseline, 8 weeks, and 16 weeks. Joint angles throughout the stride of those who completed the training ( n = 21) were compared between groups and assessment time points using a statistical parametric mapping 2-way analysis of variance, with group and study time point as independent variables. There was no interaction effect of group and study time point ( p > 0.05), indicating that both training programs had similar effects on running kinematics. There was a main effect of time for sagittal plane knee and hip kinematics ( p < 0.001); after training, subjects ran with a more extended leg, particularly during swing. Programs of 8 weeks of preparatory training, followed by 8 weeks of running, resulted in altered sagittal plane biomechanics, which have previously been related to improved running economy. A greater volume of plyometric, run training or concurrent plyometric and run training may be required to elicit changes in running form associated with lower injury risk.