Examining inter-limb asymmetry in distance runners and non-runners

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

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.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

• 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

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.