No. No, they don't. The glute max is most active during the initial loading phase of running as they resist hip flexion forces upwards of 2 x bodyweight. From the work of Lenhart we see the Glut max working hardest at initial contact then late swing phase, but NO activity during toe-off.
🙋🏼♂️So what muscles do propel us forward?
The calves. From the work of Hamner, we see that the calves are the primary contributors to propulsion and support during the late stance phase.
🔑So runners, if you want to improve your propulsion, it's all in the calves NOT the glutes!🐮
👋Runners & health professionals, share & spread the word to clear up that it’s NOT all in the hips when it comes to running!
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#runningcommunity #iloverunning #melbournerunners #instarunners #runnersofinstagram #runninginjuries #halfmarathontraining #marathontraining #runninginjury #runninginjuryrecovery #running #runningcommunity #trailrunning #ultrarunning #trailrun #runningstrong #marathon #run #runnersworld #glutes #calves #chiro #physio #podiatry #runningmyth
📚References
Hamner, S. R., et al. (2010). "Muscle contributions to propulsion and support during running." J Biomech 43(14): 2709-2716.
Lenhart, R., et al. (2014). "Hip Muscle Loads During Running at Various Step Rates." J Orthop Sports Phys Ther: 1-30