Field-based monitoring of running gait coordination using accelerometry tracks the cumulative impact of fatigue during intense training programs

• Published in: Journal of science and medicine in sport Vol. 27; pp. S78 - S79
• Main Authors: Fuller, J., Doyle, T., Doyle, E., Arnold, J., Buckley, J., Wills, J., Thewlis, D., Bellenger, C.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Belconnen Elsevier Ltd 01-10-2024; Elsevier Limited
• Subjects: Athletes; Fatigue; Gait; Health risk assessment; Injuries; Performance evaluation; Sensors
• ISSN: 1440-2440; 1878-1861
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2024.08.090

Introduction: A range of body systems and functions can be monitored in running athletes to gain insight into when high training volume and insufficient recovery increase fatigue, which may predispose individuals to increased risk of injury. Methods: Fifteen trained runners completed one-week of light training (baseline), two weeks of heavy training (high intensity, duration, and frequency) designed to induce substantial fatigue, and a 10-day light taper to allow recovery and adaptation. Discussion: This field-based study demonstrates that prolonged heavy training decreases gait coordination, reduces performance, decreases perceived recovery, and increases perceived stress. [...]these coordination changes may represent a heightened risk of injury and indicate that training should be adjusted to promote recovery.