A groundbreaking study on marathon running biomechanics was published on February 17, 2024, by Dr. Robert Fisher, a biomechanics expert at Harvard Medical School. The study, which focused on reducing injury risks among marathon runners, has already begun to shift the way athletes approach training and race preparation.
The research, which was conducted in collaboration with the Boston Marathon and the Sports Science Institute, examined the impact of running form, stride mechanics, and muscle fatigue on injury prevention during long-distance running. Marathon runners, particularly those competing at high levels, often face overuse injuries such as shin splints, stress fractures, and IT band syndrome. Dr. Fisher’s study, which involved 50 elite marathoners, sought to understand how slight changes in running technique could reduce the strain placed on the body during extended periods of activity.
Using advanced motion capture technology, Dr. Fisher and his team analyzed the biomechanics of elite marathon runners during both training and race-day conditions. The study revealed several key insights, particularly in relation to foot strike patterns, cadence, and overall posture. One major finding was that increasing cadence by just 5-10% helped to reduce impact forces on the knees and hips, leading to a significant decrease in injury rates. Additionally, runners with a midfoot or forefoot strike pattern were found to have a reduced risk of developing stress fractures compared to those who landed with a heavy heel strike.
Another aspect of the study focused on muscle fatigue and its role in increasing injury risk. Dr. Fisher’s research found that targeted strengthening exercises for the core and lower extremities not only enhanced running efficiency but also helped delay the onset of fatigue during long races. The study also introduced new concepts of injury prevention by recommending adjustments to pacing strategies and rest intervals during training to ensure that athletes could maintain their optimal form throughout the entirety of a race.
In response to these findings, the Boston Marathon has already begun incorporating some of Dr. Fisher’s recommendations into their pre-race training programs for runners, especially those aiming to run at competitive levels. The goal is to educate participants on the importance of biomechanics, correct running form, and injury prevention strategies as part of the official race preparation.
Dr. Fisher’s team has also partnered with US Track and Field to integrate the findings into national training programs, aiming to reduce injury rates in the sport overall. Physiotherapists and sports medicine professionals are expected to adopt these new strategies into rehabilitation practices for injured runners, providing a more holistic approach to recovery and long-term athletic performance.
With marathon participation continuing to rise, the importance of injury prevention and performance optimization in the sport is increasingly being recognized. This study’s results represent a significant leap forward in the understanding of how biomechanics can improve the safety and efficiency of long-distance running. As the science continues to evolve, these findings are likely to influence how future generations of marathon runners prepare for races and maintain their health throughout their careers.
