The primary aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the level of minimalism of running shoes and the incidence of RRI among runners. A secondary objective was to examine the influence of running habits, including training pace and frequency, on injury incidence.
This study utilised the Minimalist Index (MI) to quantify the level of minimalism of running shoes, based on make and brand of shoes reported by 288 runners through an online survey. The MI ranges from 0-100%, with 0% being least and 100% being most minimal. Participants provided comprehensive information on personal characteristics, running habits, and any recent injuries, defined as any physically adverse event leading to a ≥7-day loss in training in the past 12 months. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals [95% CI] were calculated to assess the statistical significance of various factors related to injury incidence. Additionally, injury rates were examined across four groups of runners based on MI quartiles: 0-24%, 25-49%, 50-74%, and 75-100%, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of how varying levels of shoe minimalism impact injury incidence.
The average running shoe MI was 34.5 ± 19.2% (low minimalism), with an overall injury incidence rate of 44.8%. A higher MI was significantly associated with reduced injury incidence (p 0.001, OR = 0.028 [0.005-0.158]). Notably, the group with the highest MI (75-100%) exhibited a significantly lower injury incidence compared to the group with the lowest MI (0-24%) (p = 0.005). Regarding running habits, a faster training pace was linked to increased injury incidence (p = 0.029, OR = 1.182 [1.017-1.374]). Furthermore, linear regression analysis revealed a significant relationship between training pace and days lost due to injuries (p = 0.017, OR = 2.840 [0.516-5.163]).
Higher levels of shoe minimalism may offer protective benefits against RRI, particularly when minimalism is 75% or greater. Additionally, faster training paces are associated with a greater injury incidence and subsequent training loss.
These findings support the potential benefits of minimalist shoes in reducing incidence of RRI and underscore the importance of managing training loads effectively. Future research should further explore the protective effects of minimalist footwear and develop guidelines for their optimal use in preventing injuries within the running community.
Minimalist index
Injury prevention
