This article looks at the effect of running surfaces on muscle damage
What’s the deal?
Many forms of exercise will cause minor muscle damage, including running. If we run at a fixed intensity, does the surface we run on affect the extent of muscle damage?
What did they do?
10 female participants performed two interval running tests, spaced one week apart. One test was performed on grass and the other was performed on sand. The intensity of the runs was matched based on heart rate. Muscle damage was assessed after each running session.
What happened?
The levels of myoglobin in the blood were higher after running on grass compared to sand. Myoglobin is released into the blood when muscles become damaged, which suggests that running on grass was more damaging. Despite this, participants found that the intensity and effort required was the same for running on grass and sand, and there was no reported difference in DOMS.
What can you tell me about the people?
All participants were female and had an average age of 18. They were well-trained, healthy athletes and active members of either a netball or a hockey squad.
What else should I know?
Myoglobin is found in the muscles and is important for capturing oxygen required for muscle contraction. Although muscles can become damaged with exercise and release myoglobin, this is normal and is part of the repair process. The trick is to avoid excessive damage.
What will I do differently?
As a trail runner, I am already a big fan of training on different surfaces. If the same cardiovascular benefits can be achieved, with less excess damage, then I’m all for softer surfaces!
This research was published in July 2017 by H Brown and colleagues from The University of Western Australia.
This article highlights our personal take on their research. Check it out here and see what you think!
Abstract Athlete 