The Relationship Between Biomechanical Running Parameters at Submaximal Speeds and Sprint Performance over 100 m and 200 m

Abstract

Background: Sprint performance is determined by a complex interaction of mechanical, neuromuscular, and technical factors. Although maximal running speed plays a key role in sprinting, fundamental movement patterns are also revealed at submaximal speeds. The aim of this study was to determine the relationships between running biomechanical parameters measured at different submaximal speeds (10–22 km/h) and the athletes’ performance level, as well as their personal bests in the 100 m and 200 m events. Methods: The study included 40 sprinters of different ages and performance levels. Spatiotemporal parameters (Stance Phase, Step Width, Stride Length, Stride Time, and Cadence) were recorded at four controlled speeds, and the relationships were analyzed using linear mixed models accounting for repeated measurements, inter-individual variability, and the athletes’ age and height. Depending on the analyzed parameter, linear and quadratic effects of running speed were considered. Separate regression analyses were also performed to assess the relationships between biomechanical parameters and personal bests in the 100 m and 200 m events. Results: Running speed showed significant effects on all analyzed biomechanical parameters, with significant quadratic effects also observed for Stance Phase, Stride Length, and Cadence. After correction for multiple testing, no significant main effect of performance level was found for any analyzed parameter, and no significant interactions between running speed and performance level were observed. However, estimated marginal means showed differences between the Medium- and High-performance groups in Stance Phase for both limbs at 18 and 22 km/h. Nominal associations with sprint performance were observed in the regression analyses, but none remained significant after Benjamini–Hochberg correction. Conclusions: Running speed was the main factor associated with changes in the spatiotemporal structure of running. Although differences in Stance Phase were observed between performance groups at higher submaximal speeds, the overall associations with performance level and sprint personal bests were not significant after correction for multiple testing. The analysis of running biomechanics at submaximal speeds may provide additional information relevant to the assessment of running technique and may complement, but should not replace, assessment at maximal running speeds.