The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of fatigue on kinematic parameters during a 5 km road race, and to establish how men and women fatigue differently. 17 highly competitive distance runners (9 male, 8 female) were videoed (50 Hz) as they completed the English National 5 km championships. Three-dimensional kinematic data were analysed using motion analysis software (SIMI, Munich). Data were recorded at 950 m, 2,400 m, and 3,850 m. Repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant decrease in speed (p < 0.01) which occurred due to both decreased step length and cadence (p < 0.05). Differences in speed, step length and contact time between men and women were found (p < 0.05). Athletes can reduce the risk of fatigue by using appropriate racing tactics.
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