Does training have consequences for the walk-run transition speed?
A number of authors when studying the walk-run transition phenomenon focused either on the mechanical or energy expenditure whilst only a few used both parameters concurrently. Moreover the literature demonstrates that the contribution of these variables changes along with the level and method of training. Consequently the purpose of this study is to find, by analyzing concurrently these two variables, if the walk-run transition speed is linked to the type of training. To this end we calculated two theoretical transition speeds: one based on the metabolic energy expenditure St(1) and the second one based on the internal work St(2). Subjects were divided into three groups (untrained, sprint and endurance-trained men) who were required to walk and run on a treadmill at increasing speeds. Firstly we show that the relationship between St(1) and St(2) differs depending on the groups. Sprinters have a significantly lower St(2) than St(1) whereas the opposite is found for untrained subjects. We also show that the transition speed is linked to the subject's type of training. To conclude it seems that acquiring running techniques through specific training has consequences for the walk-run transition phenomenon.
Beaupied
Hélène
H
Laboratoire de Physiologie et de Biomécanique de 1'Exercice Musculaire, UFR. APS, Université Rennes, 2, Avenue Charles Tillon, CS 24 414, 35044, Rennes, France. helene_beaupied@yahoo.fr
Multon
Franck
F
Delamarche
Paul
P
D000054:Acceleration; D000328:Adult; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004734:Energy Metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D005080:Exercise Test; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010806:Physical Education and Training / Q000379:methods*; D010807:Physical Endurance / Q000502:physiology; D012420:Running / Q000502:physiology*; D016138:Walking / Q000502:physiology*