Ankle Stiffness

Expert Discussion Advanced Sprint Training
1

Does anyone have research showing that ankle stiffness has a high correlation to sprint training?

I believe it does, I just need some research to show it.

Thanks for the help

2

I’ve got a print journal confirming this. The study actually measures the joint stiffness of the knee and ankle at differing running speeds up to 100%. Ankle stiffness is constant and through reviews of related literature it is concluded that ankle stiffness is directly related to sprint speed.

I’ll try and find an online version for you.

Stiffness may not be the best term to use, however. Martyn76? states a ‘compliant’ tendon is a better term.

3

Thanks, any help would be appreciated. Could you tell me what journal this is in?

4

Ok - re-read your question and I’m not sure it confirms correlation between stiffness and sprint training but certainly discussed it’s importance in sprinting itself.

http://www.acsm-msse.org/pt/re/msse/abstract.00005768-200201000-00025.htm;jsessionid=JRwDsr52LmTppY3ryFGJk6t9NpVTLQt6K6DhKPGrFgCDTcNq7qy8!-1157023329!181195628!8091!-1

There’s the reference and abstract. The discussion contains the most valuable conclusions related to ankle stiffness.

5

Hello hcm1225,

“Ankle stiffness”, as you refer to it, has a direct correlation to sprinting. Ankle stiffness is what allows elastic re-coil from ground contact/ground force support to reposition the leg for the next stride. It can be developed by the use of moderate pylometrics, such as, straight leg rope jumping, bouncing on the toes and high speed sprinting.

Relentless

6

Does this apply to jumping as well?

7

Helloo djsm28,

In answer to your question,“Does this apply to jumpers as well.” In a word Yes.