Mechanical analysis of Running: Running is achieved from a series of alternating hops from left to right leg. The ankle, knee and hip provide almost all the propulsive forces during running. Running has alternate periods of single step separated by flight phase when both feet are airborne. It has the following phases.
(a) Stance:
(i) Initial contact: The first contact of the foot is made by heel. It continues till the whole sole of the foot comes into contact with the ground. The knee and ankle flexes and the foot roils in to absorb impact forces.
(ii) Mid-stance: In this stage sole of the foot completely touches the ground. At this point whole body balances on one legs.
(iii) Propulsion: The supporting leg leaves the ground therefore the opposite leg comes into contact with the ground.
(b) Swing: The non-supporting leg swings past stationary leg and becomes ready for the next step. The swing ends with initial contact.
Upper body and arm mechanics during running: Its main function is to provide balance and promote efficient movement. The movement of arms should be opposite to the legs. Arms movement adds to gain momentum.
