A comparison of injury rates between runners wearing traditional versus minimal footwear during a 10 week progressive introductory running program.A study conducted byKimberly D. INFORMATION FOR PARTICIPANTS
We are seeking volunteers to participate in a 12 week study in the Comox Valley, beginning April 3rd, 2012. Participants will have the opportunity to complete a progressive 'Learn to Run', run:walk training program building to 20 minutes of running, 3-4 days per week. Participants may choose to complete the program wearing either traditional or minimal footwear. This is a great opportunity for beginners who want to 'Learn to Run' and for experienced runners who want to transition into minimal footwear! Participants are needed for the following three study groups:
1. Traditional Footwear- Beginner Runners
2. Minimal Footwear- Beginner Runners
3. Minimal Footwear- Runners with Experience
Participants will receive the following complimentary services in exchange for volunteering for the study:
Before and after functional testing
10-week once per week coached Learn to Run Clinic
10-week Learn to Run training program
Weekly motivational & educational emails
Detailed training manual & training log
Successful participants must meet the following prerequisites in order to be eligible for the study:
'Healthy' as per the Par-Q Health Screening Form (see questions below).
18 years of age and over. Beginner Runners- no prior running experience or no regular running for the last 4 months. Experienced Runners-ability to run a minimum of 20 minutes 3 days per week currently BUT with no minimal footwear running experience. Must be free of running induced injuries for a minimum of 6 weeks. Must supply their own footwear, either traditional or minimal (see definitions below), depending on choice of study groups. Commitment:
Must attend weekly clinic sessions: once per week for 12 weeks including before and after testing sessions. Must complete 2-3 additional weekly training runs and adhere to prescribed running program. Must complete pre/post health questionnaire and submit weekly progress reports for duration of study. Dates: Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30pm April 3-June 19, 2012
Deadline to sign up: March 28th. Contact info@elmhealth.com to learn more and sign up. Footwear Definitions for Study:
Traditional footwear: Includes any traditional running shoe. Minimal footwear:
4mm or less drop from heel to forefoot cushioning.
15mm or less maximum cushioning in any part of the sole between foot and ground. No significant arch support. Flexible structure to allow natural foot movement.
*A list of specific shoes that fall within these guidelines will be provided for participants although footwear will not be limited to these suggestions. Par Q Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire:
*Note individuals who answer YES to any of the following questions may still be able to participate in the research study with written, unrestricted medical clearance from their physician. Contact study conductors for more information should you answer YES to any of the questions.
1. Has your doctor ever said that you have a heart condition and that you should only do physical activity recommended by a doctor?
2. Do you feel pain in your chest when you do physical activity?
3. In the past month, have you had chest pain when you were not doing physical activity?
4. Do you lose your balance because of dizziness or do you ever lose consciousness?
5. Do you have a bone or joint problem that could be made worse by a change in your physical activity?
6. Is your doctor currently prescribing drugs for your blood pressure or heart condition (ie, water pills)?
7. Do you know of any other reason why you should not do physical activity?
