Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to quantify the effects of air resistance on metabolic, kinetic, and kinematic parameters during treadmill running and to investigate how drafting influences these parameters. Methods: Thirty-three well-trained distance runners participated in biomechanical assessments, and seventeen of these also participated in metabolic assessments. The protocol involved running at 80-85% of critical speed on a force-instrumented treadmill facing a wind tunnel. Five wind conditions were tested: no fan (NF), headwind (HW), headwind with drafting (HWD), no wind (NW), and no wind with drafting (NWD). Ground reaction forces (GRF) and kinematic data were collected and analyzed using linear mixed-effects models. Metabolic data were collected using a portable metabolic device with oxygen consumption (V̇O2) measured across conditions. Results: Oxygen consumption increased by 4.73% in HW compared to NF (p < 0.0001) and decreased by 2.79% with drafting (HWD) (p < 0.0001). Significant changes in GRF and kinematic variables were observed across conditions. HW conditions led to increased impact force, peak braking, and propulsive forces. Kinematic adjustments included increased knee and hip flexion angles during initial contact in HW, with these angles returning to baseline levels during drafting. Conclusions: Air resistance significantly increases oxygen consumption and alters GRF and kinematic variables during running. Drafting reduces but does not eliminate the metabolic cost of air resistance. Horizontal forces, particularly reduced braking and increased propulsion, are primary contributors to the increased oxygen uptake in elevated air resistance. Kinematic changes, such as increased knee flexion and altered upper body positioning, play a role in the metabolic differences observed across conditions. Future research should continue exploring the impact of air resistance using authentic experimental setups.

Degree

PhD

College and Department

Life Sciences; Exercise Sciences

Rights

https://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/

Date Submitted

2024-08-08

Document Type

Dissertation

Keywords

drafting, running, air resistance

Language

english

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