Examining inter-limb asymmetry in distance runners and non-runners
Lower Limb Functional Asymmetry in Healthy Novice, Moderately and Highly-trained Distance Runners Versus Non-athletes
This study looks at how differences between the left and right sides of the body in runners and non-runners might affect their running performance and risk of injuries.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 72 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Vrije Universiteit Brussel Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ixelles-Elsene, Brussels Capital) |
| Trial ID | NCT06808399 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the degree of inter-limb asymmetry in distance runners compared to non-runners. It aims to understand how functional asymmetries may relate to running performance and the risk of running-related injuries. Participants will include highly trained, moderately trained, novice runners, and a control group of non-athletes, all aged between 20 and 50 years. The study will assess the prevalence of asymmetry and its potential implications for injury risk and performance.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include distance runners aged 20 to 50 years, whether highly trained, moderately trained, or novice, as well as non-athletes who meet specific activity criteria.
Not a fit: Patients with known medical conditions affecting their physical capabilities or those outside the age range of 20 to 50 years may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help identify risk factors for injuries in runners, leading to improved training and injury prevention strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While research on inter-limb asymmetry in athletes is limited, similar studies have indicated a correlation between asymmetry and injury risk, suggesting potential relevance for this investigation.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * • Being aged between 20 and 50 years at Tfamiliarization * Being free from any medical attention injury (i.e., injury that results in a participant receiving medical attention) for at least 6 months upon Tfamiliarization * Speaking Dutch, French or English * Highly trained distance runners: * Running at least 150km per month for at least 3 months Moderately-trained runners: * Running between 40 - 150 km per month for at least 6 months \- Novice distance runners: * Running not more than 10km per week for the past 12 months \- Control group of non-athletes * Performing \<75min of systematic moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity per week and having no experience in systematic (un)structured running activities for the past 5 years Exclusion Criteria: * • Being younger than 20 years or older than 50 years at Tfamiliarization * Any known relevant medical history or current condition (e.g., neurological diseases, inner ear diseases) that could affect the performance of the functional tests (e.g., balance in repeated hop tests) * Participants that have undergone a surgery at lower limb level during the past 6 months * Medication or drug use (e.g., blood pressure medicines)that could affect the performance of the functional tests (e.g., balance in repeated hop tests) * Participants performing more than two hours per week of unilateral sports (e.g., tennis or soccer)
Where this trial is running
Ixelles-Elsene, Brussels Capital
- MOVE Research group — Ixelles-Elsene, Brussels Capital, Belgium (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Joachim D'Hondt
- Email: Joachim.dhondt@vub.be
- Phone: +32 (0) 629 27 35
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.