Skipping Easier On Knees Than Running

Researchers at East Carolina University measured the force put on knees by skipping and running to see which exercise takes less of a toll. Noting that every year an estimated 79 percent of runners report injuries the investigators compared the contact force on the knee for 20 healthy young adults age 18 to 30 during running and skipping at the same speed. All the participants first practiced skipping for distances up to one mile on a treadmill before their gaits were assessed. The study found that compared to skipping, running caused almost twice the average peak force on the kneecap and nearly 30 percent more average peak force on the knee hinge between the thighbone (femur), shinbone (tibia) and kneecap. The researchers also reported that skipping used 30 percent more calories than running. Even so, study leader Jessica McDonnell said she and her team are “not unaware of the aversion some people may have” toward skipping as part of their exercise programs. But she noted that the study has shown that skipping instead of running has “untapped potential” for providing exercise while preventing knee injuries.  

Source: 
Jessica McDonald et al, “Skipping has lower knee joint contact forces and higher metabolic cost compared to running,” Gait & Posture, May 2019. doi.10.1016/j.gaitpost2019.03.028 

More from this week’s bulletin:   

• Walnuts For Lower Blood Pressure 
• Second Hand Smoke Threat  
• This Week’s Recipe: Tofu With Cilantro Sauce 

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