This study aimed to apply characteristics of the spring-mass model (SMM) to distance running over a competitive season by measuring changes in landing-takeoff and rebound asymmetries. Thirteen runners from the same university team underwent 3D biomechanical gait analyses at the start and end of a 7-week competitive season. Paired-sample t-tests compared landing-take-off asymmetry [effective contact time (tce) to aerial time (tae)], rebound asymmetry [positive work time (tpush), to negative work time (tbrake), and average vertical ground reaction force (vGRF). Rebound asymmetry increased by 4%, but was not significant, t(12)=-1.239, p=0.239. Landing-take-off asymmetry decreased by 1%, but was not significant, t(12)=0.232, p=0.82. vGRF did not change, t(12)=-0.074, p=0.942. It appears only minor SMM improvements may occur over a season in distance runners.
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