Energetically optimal stride frequency is maintained in trained distance ultra-runners

Objectives: At a given running speed, humans naturally endeavor to achieve an optimal stride frequency that minimizes metabolic cost. Research has suggested that runners select this near optimal stride fre- quency in some process of self-optimization even during fatiguing tasks up to 1-h of high-intensity running. Here, we studied whether runners demonstrate a similar self-optimizing capability after an ultramarathon of 6 h. Design: Controlled pre-post study. Method: We collected temporal stride kinematics and metabolic data in nine (experimental group) male runners before and after 6 h of running and in six (control group) male ultramarathon runners who did not run, but stayed awake and performed normal, daily physical activities avoiding strenuous exercises over the 6-h period. For each participant, preferred and optimal stride frequencies were measured, where stride frequency was systematically varied above and below PSF (±4% and ±8%). Results: Preferred and optimal stride frequencies across time and group showed no significant differences (p ≥ 0.276). Furthermore, neither the overall relationship between metabolic cost and stride frequency, nor the energetically optimal stride frequency changed substantially after several hours of running. Conclusions: Similar dynamics of stride frequency adjustments in the experimental group occurred as those found in a non-fatigued state. This suggests that after an ultramarathon of 6 h, runners were still able to optimize their gait, and automatically adjust it in order to converge on the energetically optimal gait.