How Can I Measure the Impact Protection of Running Shoes?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods to measure the impact protection qualities of running shoes, focusing on the feasibility of DIY testing setups and the potential equipment needed for such measurements. Participants explore both technical solutions and personal experiences related to running injuries.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about devices or methods to measure impact protection in running shoes.
  • Another participant suggests using an accelerometer for the measurements.
  • A request for recommendations on specific accelerometers and testing setups is made.
  • It is proposed that small stress transducers could be placed under the foot, with data recorded on a data-logger, though this may be bulky.
  • Concerns about the cost and accessibility of the necessary equipment are expressed, along with a personal account of running-related pain.
  • One participant expresses skepticism about the utility of measuring forces on feet and legs, suggesting that it may not lead to a solution for the pain issue.
  • Alternative suggestions include investing in high-quality running shoes or considering other forms of exercise like cycling.
  • A mention of using an Arduino board for a potentially cost-effective solution is made, contingent on the participant's technical skills.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effectiveness of measuring impact protection and whether such measurements would help address running-related injuries. There is no consensus on the best approach or solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants' suggestions depend on individual technical abilities and access to equipment, which may vary significantly. The discussion includes personal anecdotes that highlight the complexity of running-related injuries.

Who May Find This Useful

Runners interested in quantifying the impact protection of their shoes, individuals exploring DIY measurement techniques, and those dealing with running-related injuries may find this discussion relevant.

stryped
Messages
51
Reaction score
3
Can anyone recommend a device or way I can measure the impact protection qualities of different running shoes? I am a runner and would be interested in doing this myself.

I appreciate it!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You need an accelerometer. You can probably buy a small one that might work.
 
Can you recommend one or how to set this kind of test up?
 
You would also need some small stress transducers to fit under your foot in various locations. The signals from these plus the accelerometers would need to be recorded on a data-logger, strapped to the runner.
There are a number of data-logging systems available for schools, which could possibly be used. They would be more bulky than you might like, ideally, but they would be relatively straightforward to fit and not too expensive. They come with USB interface and display / calculating software.
It all depends on how you are with technical construction.
 
Would this be expensive? Unfortunately I do not know anyone with acess to equipment like that. I am very mechanically inclined.

I am a runner with a pain in my side only after running two or more miles and running at a 6:20 pace or faster. It does not happen when going slower or biking or whatever. It is partially due to my footfalls I believe. I would like a way to quantify shoe shock absorbing. I run about 50 miles per week.

Again sorry for all the questions. I really appreciate it! Doctors and MRI's can figure out my problem. I hope science can lol...
 
I am not sure that actually measuring the forces on your feet / legs would help you. It would be 'interesting' but wouldn't lead to any solution for your problem, I fear.
There is one possible solution for your problem - but you don't want to go there, I'm sure. Stopping running would help! Did you consider an alternative loony way of knackering yourself, perhaps (I have been there too aamof)? Cycling is equally knackering and fun but doesn't involve the impulsive shocks that running gives you.

Perhaps you should invest in the most expensive, specialist running shoes you can find. I know some runners who say that a local shop, here in Brighton, has sorted them out with some brilliant shoes - but they would say that, after spending crazy sums of money!
Good luck with the problem.

I am very mechanically inclined.
Was there a "not" missing from that sentence, by any chance? If you are handy with electronics then possibly an Arduino board and some peripherals could give you some answers for not many tens of Quids (BP)
 

Similar threads

Undergrad How to Measure Impact Force / Energy Absorption
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
5K
Undergrad How to Calculate force exerted on a falling body?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
Undergrad Impact, momentum, demand and capacity
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
High School Wanting to do some impact force experiments
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
High School Football padding against forces -- What is the appropriate amount?
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
High School Trying to understand wind forces on a door
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
Undergrad G Force Calculation Optimisation with camera, equations & accelerometer (drop testing)
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Undergrad How to measure the impact force of a moving object
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
5K
High School How do I express the force of me falling 33 feet onto concrete?
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
2K
High School Helmet Safety - Measuring Force of Impact
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K