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Writer's pictureLuke Nelson

Up & Down: Increased vertical oscillation

⬆️⬆️ 𝐔𝐏 & 𝐃𝐎𝗪𝐍 ⬇️⬇️⁣

Are you a runner that can be heard a mile away pounding the pavement? Chances are, you may possess an increased vertical oscillation.

From the research, we know those with an increased vertical oscillation can experience:⁣

🔹Increased peak knee extensor moment, peak vertical ground reaction force and braking impulse (Wille 2014, Napier 2018)⁣

🔸Increased vertical displacement has been associated with low running economy (Moore 2016, Folland et al. 2017)⁣

🔹Increased knee extensor moment, increased peak vertical GRF, increased AP GRF (Heiderscheit et al. 2011)⁣


Runners that have excessive vertical oscillation can often be heard with a heavy landing. They also tend to display overstriding and a low cadence. At toe off they possess an angle of propulsion too vertical, which results in an increased vertical movement rather than a more preferable horizontal propulsion.⁣


Firstly to measure this displacement we can take a line through the pelvis at the highest point during the flight phase, and then a line at the lowest point during mid-stance. ⁣

⁣ ⁣

How to address this (if you need!)⁣

The two most common cues to help with this include:⁣

🔹Increasing cadence (Heiderscheit 2011)⁣

🔸Cueing a lighter landing⁣

If you need help with your running technique, please don’t hesitate to contact us at www.healthhp.com.au⁣

📚References⁣

  • Heiderscheit, B. C., et al. (2011). "Effects of step rate manipulation on joint mechanics during running." Med Sci Sports Exerc 43(2): 296-302.⁣

  • Folland, J. P., et al. (2017). "RUNNING TECHNIQUE IS AN IMPORTANT COMPONENT OF RUNNING ECONOMY AND PERFORMANCE." Med Sci Sports Exerc.⁣

  • Moore, I. S. (2016). "Is There an Economical Running Technique? A Review of Modifiable Biomechanical Factors Affecting Running Economy." Sports Med⁣

  • Napier, C., et al. (2018). "Kinetic Risk Factors of Running-Related Injuries in Female Recreational Runners." Scand J Med Sci Sports.⁣

  • Wille, C., et al. (2014). "Ability of Sagittal Kinematic Variables to Estimate Ground Reaction Forces and Joint Kinetics in Running." J Orthop Sports Phys Ther: 1-17.⁣

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