| This study examined the ground reaction forces and center of pressure patterns for barefoot and shod conditions of a female distance runner. Very few substantial differences were found between barefoot and shod conditions. The greatest variation was the percent of stance in which the heelstrike loading occurred, 3.1% for barefeet and 6.1% for shod trials. Possibly the difference could be due to the greater landing area of the shoe and also the material of which the sole is made. Similarities included: (1) increased velocity during the propulsive phase; (2) maximum vertical loading of 2.8... |
