Author(s): BRUVERE, D., BERNANS, E., Institution: RIGA STRADINS UNIVERSITY , Country: LATVIA, Abstract-ID: 2388

INTRODUCTION:
Advanced Footwear Technology (AFT) has gained strong scientific interest in recent years, reflecting its potential to enhance running economy and performance in long-distance running. Despite the substantial research output, relatively few studies have examined the effects of carbon-plated shoes in running trials longer than 10 minutes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of the Nike Alphafly 3 carbon-plated shoes on running economy during a 30-minute submaximal treadmill run.
METHODS:
Thirty elite long-distance runners (14 females and 16 males) performed two identical 30-minute submaximal runs in conventional running footwear and Nike Alphafly 3 carbon-plated shoes. The runs were separated by a two-week interval, with the carbon-plated shoe trial always performed first. Running physiology was measured continuously throughout the trial. Running kinematics were recorded every fifth minute for 5 minutes during the trial using the OptoJump Next system (Microgate, Italy) and the BTS G-WALK sensor (BTS Bioengineering, Italy). Blood lactate concentration was measured every 10 minutes, and subjective perceived exertion was assessed immediately following each lactate measurement using a modified Borg CR-10 scale.
RESULTS:
Running in carbon-plated shoes resulted in significantly lower blood lactate levels, with a tendency for further decline during the second half of the trial. Reduced heart rate values were also observed, with some participants demonstrating decreases greater than 10 beats/min compared with conventional running footwear. All participants reported lower perceived exertion ratings when wearing the Nike Alphafly 3; however, comfort ratings varied, particularly among rearfoot strikers or runners unfamiliar with the specific shoe model. Running kinematic analysis revealed increased step length, contact time and vertical oscillation values when running in carbon-plated shoe model.
CONCLUSION:
AFT demonstrates clear physiological advantages over conventional running footwear during a submaximal 30-minute run. Improvements tend to become more pronounced as running duration increases. The observed benefits are primarily associated with the shoe-induced changes in running kinematics (increased step length and prolonged contact time) and the runner's ability to effectively adapt to them. Rearfoot strikers and runners not familiar with particular shoe conditions seem to benefit less than well-adapted midfoot and forefoot strikers. The observed increase in vertical oscillation values highlights a critical and recently discussed aspect of the potential long-term effects of AFT on the musculoskeletal system and injury risk, particularly in runners with reduced lower-extremity muscle strength or excessive pronation.