Long-term effects of school barefoot running program on sprinting biomechanics in children: A case-control study

The acute changes of running biomechanics in habitually shod children when barefoot have been demonstrated. However, the long-term effects on sprinting is not well understood. How does four years participation a daily school program influence sprint and stretch-shortening cycle jump ability children? One hundred one from education (age, 11.2 ± 0.7 years-old) 93 control 11.1 performed 50 m maximal sprints counter movement five repeated-rebound jumping. To analyse kinematics, high-speed camera (240 fps) was used. In addition, foot strike patterns were evaluated by using three cameras (300 fps). Jump heights for both types contact times rebound measured mat system. Two-way mixed ANOVA used to examine effect factor (barefoot vs school) footwear shod) biomechanics. Sprinting characterised significantly shorter (p = 0.003) longer flight 0.005) compared regardless condition. sprinting, greater proportion sprinted with fore-foot or mid-foot < 0.001). Barefoot also had higher height 0.002) time than results suggest that school-based programs may improve aspects develop fast children. order confirm this viewpoint, adequately powered randomised controlled trials should be conducted.