Reviewed by Maggie McPherson, SPT
Article:
A One Session Gait Retraining Protocol with Metronome Augmentation Increases Cadence in Novice and Recreational Runners published in International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy DOI: 10.26603/001c.90909
Introduction:
Inexperienced runners are more likely to sustain running injuries, potentially due to poor form and training strategies. Research shows that some of the highest performing running athletes have a higher cadence than the average runner. This study explores the effects of a training protocol that includes a one-time training session followed by metronome augmentation practice. The aim of the study was to see if the protocol resulted in increased running cadence, as increased cadence is widely believed to improve running biomechanics and decrease sub-optimal force distribution through the lower extremities.
Methods:
This is a randomized controlled trial that looked at the effects of a training protocol on 33 novice or recreational runners over the age of 18. Each participant completed a 12 Minute Cooper Run at baseline and again after 2 weeks of training. Outcome measures included rate of perceived exertion (RPE), heart rate, cadence and distance covered. They additionally measure biomechanics via inertial measurement units, tracking stance duration, vertical excursion, knee flexion, and lumbar flexion.
The protocol included a training session for how to use the metronome while running. Each runner’s cadence was set at a 5-10% increase from their baseline cadence. Each participant then ran 2-3 times per week for up to 30 minutes for two weeks, with their set cadence playing via metronome. The researchers used a Mann-Whitney U test to analyze significant differences between the control and intervention groups.
Results:
Cadence at one minute (p=0.037) and overall cadence (p=0.002) both demonstrated significant, meaningful improvement versus the control group at the follow-up 12 Minute Cooper Run. There was no significant difference for any other outcome measures, including biomechanics.
Discussion:
Improving cadence has been largely supported in the research to improve running form, as over-striding is the number one biomechanical running error for recreational runners. Over-striding may cause increased stress on the lower extremity during gait, as the knee cannot properly respond to the high ground reaction forces as the foot hits the ground. These results offer a standardized, practical tool for clinicians to implement in their practice. External augmentation via metronome is a feasible way to improve novice runners’ cadence.
Reference:
Huber A, Verhoff D. A One Session Gait Retraining Protocol with Metronome Augmentation Increases Cadence in Novice and Recreational Runners. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy. 2024;19(1):1494-1502. Accessed August 15, 2024. https://research.ebsco.com/linkprocessor/plink?id=5898c2c8-8a54-3f8b-b4e7-bdb5239c4026