The results: running with a normal arm swing did indeed burn less energy (3% less than the behind-the-back form, 9% less than across-the-chest, and 13% less than hands-on-head). It also significantly reduced shoulder and pelvis rotation. Those two findings are connected: at least part of the extra energy needed for the funny runs probably comes from the muscular effort required to rotate the torso in order to counterbalance the rotational angular momentum of the legs (which is what the arm swing normally does). The big conclusion? Keep swinging your arms. How? I think the ideal scenario for swinging the arms is that the motion would be primarily passive, to help reduce the metabolic cost of running, Arellano said in his e-mail. So keep them relaxed, in a comfortable position – and not pinned to your sides.
Posted on: Sun, 20 Jul 2014 12:00:00 +0000
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