Question

23) When comparing rear-foot (RF) and fore-foot (FF) strikers during running, an examination of vertical ground reaction force will likely reveal which of the following?

Select one:

a. RF strikers have a significantly higher overall peak force

b. Peak forces between RF and FF strikers are very similar

c. Loading rates during early stance are higher for RF than FF strikers

d. Both similar peak forces between RF and FF strikers, and higher loading rates during early stance for RF compared to FF strikers

Answer 1

The correct option is

d. Both similar peak forces between RF and FF strikers, and higher loading rates during early stance for RF compared to FF strikers

Striker is always exerting the force against gravity i.e. his/her weight and since the weight is not varying with RF or FF strikes therefore the peak support force will remain same. There will higher loading rates during early stance for RF compared to FF because loading is started as soon as striker contacts the ground and increases until mid stance and the toe-off occurs quicker than RF contacts the ground.