A Case Study Comparing Running Metrics Determined from Unshod and Various Shod Running Events

Running is a popular form of cardiovascular exercise. Unfortunately, it can also lead to musculoskeletal injuries of the lower extremities. The epidemiology of such injuries remains in question as injury rates have remained relatively constant despite changes in shoe types, shoe mechanics, and gait methods. Wearables and networking technology have enabled real-world data collection that may be used to assess various gait parameters for the purposes of improving safety and performance. This study used a commercially available device to measure key gait metrics from a single user during unshod and shod running events. Shod running included different types of shoes. The results suggest the metrics may be invariant under the running conditions examined.