Abstract

Running technique has an impact in lower limb injuries, particularly the initial contact pattern such as rearfoot (RF) or forefoot (FF). However, there is limited evidence of the electromyographic (EMG) activity for both conditions. The aim of this study was to compare the lower limb muscles EMG amplitude between RF and FF techniques during running. Thirteen runners were evaluated at a self-selected running speed under two conditions: initial contact with RF and FF. The myoelectric activity of the rectus femoris (RE), biceps femoris (BF), tibialis anterior (TA), medial gastrocnemius (GM) and lateral (GL) were analysed. The EMG amplitude of 10 running cycles were averaged and normalized to the maximum voluntary contraction. The results included a significant higher activation of the GM and GL muscles ford the FF condition during the stance phase, balance and the entire running cycle. In addition, the TA showed higher activation during the swing phase and the 100% running cycle for the RP condition. No other significant differences were found. In conclusion, FF technique increases GM and GL myoelectric activity, possibly associated with a higher impact absorption during the stance phase. On the other hand, TA increases its activity for RF condition which may imply a greater neuromuscular control prior to initial contact. Finally, the running technique is presented as a modifiable condition which can be changed to enhance performance or in pathology circumstances.