【Research Review】Biomechanical Analysis of the Effects of Carbon-Plated Running Shoe Bending Stiffness on Running Economy (RE): Exploring the Relationship Between Clinical Medicine and Sports Performance (Article 1084)

Reference Journal Source: Journal of Biomechanics • International Research Findings Review Series

This article explores the biomechanical effects of the longitudinal bending stiffness of carbon-plated running shoes on running economy (RE).

How Bending Stiffness Affects Running Economy

When a carbon fiber plate is embedded in the midsole, it limits excessive flexion of the metatarsophalangeal joint (the joint at the base of the big toe) during the propulsion phase. Through a mechanism similar to a “lever effect,” it reduces the mechanical work that the calf and foot muscles need to actively output during propulsion, with part of the propulsion energy instead being provided by the elastic return of the shoe plate. Research generally shows that carbon-plated running shoes with appropriate stiffness can lower oxygen uptake demand at the same pace, thereby improving running economy.

Stiffness Is Not Necessarily Better the Higher: Personalized Optimal Range

The relationship between bending stiffness and running economy is not linearly increasing. Excessive stiffness restricts the natural range of motion of the metatarsophalangeal joint, which instead increases the additional compensatory force required from the calf and plantar muscles to stabilize the foot, offsetting part of the energy return benefit. Multiple studies indicate that the optimal stiffness range is related to individual body weight, foot strike pattern (forefoot/midfoot/rearfoot), and pace—there is no single universal optimal value.

Comparison of Different Stiffness Ranges and Suitable Populations (Schematic)

Core Research Conclusions and Practical Recommendations

• Progressive adaptation period: When transitioning from regular running shoes to carbon-plated shoes, a 2–4 week progressive adaptation period is recommended to allow the calf and plantar muscles to gradually adapt to the new mechanical pattern, avoiding discomfort related to the Achilles tendon or metatarsals
• Pace-based selection: The energy return benefit of carbon-plated shoes is more pronounced at faster paces (e.g., race pace), while the benefit is relatively limited at slower training paces; whether to wear them can be decided based on training purpose
• Last and foot shape matching: The carbon plate structure restricts the natural flex of the sole; if the last does not match the individual’s foot shape, discomfort may be amplified or the risk of compensatory injury may increase—it is recommended to test-run before deciding
• Integration with training plans: The benefits of carbon-plated shoes should be viewed as an auxiliary tool in training and race strategy, rather than a substitute for foundational running technique training and strength training

Common Research Q&A (FAQ)

Q: Are carbon-plated running shoes suitable for beginners?

A: Beginners’ running technique and ankle strength are still in the developmental stage. Wearing high-stiffness carbon-plated shoes too early may increase compensatory load. It is recommended to first build foundational running capacity before evaluating when to introduce them.

Q: Are carbon-plated running shoes definitely faster than regular running shoes?

A: For most runners with a certain training foundation, carbon-plated shoes with appropriate stiffness do have the potential to improve running economy, but the actual benefit varies from person to person and is highly correlated with pace and running form—wearing them does not guarantee being faster.

References and Academic Citations

1. Journal of Biomechanics — Research direction on carbon fiber plate bending stiffness and metatarsophalangeal joint mechanics.
2. Sports Medicine — Literature related to running economy of carbon-plated running shoes and personalized fitting.

Further Reading

• 【Research Review】Biomechanical Analysis of the Effects of Carbon-Plated Running Shoe Bending Stiffness on Running Economy (RE): Exploring the Relationship Between Clinical Medicine and Sports Performance (Article 289)
• 【Research Review】Biomechanical Analysis of the Effects of Carbon-Plated Running Shoe Bending Stiffness on Running Economy (RE): Exploring the Relationship Between Clinical Medicine and Sports Performance (Article 1291)
• 【Research Review】Biomechanical Analysis of the Effects of Carbon-Plated Running Shoe Bending Stiffness on Running Economy (RE): Exploring the Relationship Between Clinical Medicine and Sports Performance (Article 772)
• 【Research Review】Biomechanical Analysis of the Effects of Carbon-Plated Running Shoe Bending Stiffness on Running Economy (RE): Exploring the Relationship Between Clinical Medicine and Sports Performance (Article 67)