Reebok introduces the Floatride Energy 3 Reflective Performance running shoe

January 26, 2021 – Reebok today unveils a reflective version of the FOREVER FLOATRIDE ENERGY 3 – a key offering within the award-winning premium running series known for its accessible price point.

The reflective Forever Floatride Energy 3 features:

  • 360-degree reflective midsole and reflective hits on the crosscheck side stripe
  • Responsive lightweight cushioning system
  • Breathable mesh upper that keeps you feeling refreshed during daily training
  • Anatomical heel shape for a comfortable run
  • Carbon rubber outsole for safety and durability
  • Total weight of 7.1 oz/201g women; 8,5 oz/241g men

The Floatride Energy 3 features high performance lightweight and responsive Floatride Energy foam. Updates to the third version of Reebok’s award-winning running product include a revised midsole shape and a square knit upper material. The new midsole shape is designed to deliver a smooth ride for all types of runners with an engineered heel bevel and contoured forefoot shape. The square knit upper provides additional durability while remaining lightweight and breathable. 

“This shoe was designed for the individual who tries to balance it all, but refuses to compromise when it comes to making time for their run. As a result, they are often lacing up their shoes long after the sun sets – or before it even rises,” said Emily Mullins, Director Product Float, Reebok. “As a fitness company it’s important that we’re creating products that help individuals train at their best – no matter the conditions or circumstances. For this particular shoe we wanted to deliver something that would allow individuals to train safely at any time of day. To do that, we utilized a 360-degree reflective midsole and reflective hits on the crosscheck side stripe.”

Runners are often forced to make tradeoffs when it comes to buying running shoes, and it’s Reebok’s mission within the running category to create products where they no longer have to choose. Floatride is about breaking stereotypes around what a running shoe can be and delivering premium product at an accessible price point.

The Reflective Forever Floatride Energy 3 will be available February 1st for $110 in men’s and women’s size on reebok.com

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Reebok Unveils the Nano X1, the Official Shoe of Fitness

Press Release:

BOSTON, Mass. – January 13th, 2021 – Today, Reebok unveils the highly anticipated Nano X1, the official shoe of fitness. Designed to be the most supportive, comfortable, and versatile training shoe the brand has ever made, the Nano X1 is ready to take on and tackle any fitness demand thrown its way.

A silhouette born more than 10 years ago that was originally created to meet the unique demands of athletes within the box, Reebok has continually evolved the Nano franchise over time to adapt with the fitness landscape and service the growing needs of the wider wellness community. The Nano X1 is the most refined iteration of the popular training shoe, designed to be as versatile as today’s passionate fitness lover it was created for.

“Just like any great athlete who’s always looking to hit their next PR, we are not going to stop trying to set a new one either when it comes to creating great product.  And we’re confident, the Nano X1 is our best training shoe yet,” said Tal Short, Reebok Senior Product Manager.  “During a time when fitness is so critical to not just our physical, but more importantly, our mental well-being, we’re incredibly proud to be able to support the fitness community with a product that can help individuals and athletes of all levels train at their best.”

In celebration of its launch, Reebok has enlisted an elite collective of athletes, trainers, and leaders within the wellness community from around the world to bring to life the Nano X1’s ‘Official Shoe of Fitness,’ campaign.  Here, partners ranging from Rich Froning Jr., fitness legend and 4 x Fittest Man on Earth, to Camille Kostek, an advocate for self-acceptance and former professional dancer, bring to life the Nano X1’s versatility through their own playful and dynamic “Official Shoe of” adaptions based on their unique fitness passions and training demands.  Additional brand partners featured throughout the campaign include the likes of Chyna Cho, Terron Beckham, Lexie Brown, Haley Adams, Jason Khalipa, Taylor Rae Almonte, TJ Watt, Kristin Holte, Erin Maw, Kenta Seki, and more.

“Whether it’s putting in the work during an intense bootcamp or just having fun trying out the latest dance craze, Reebok’s new Nano X1 gives me the support I need,” said Camille Kostek.  “I love how lightweight and comfortable it is for any type of exercise, yet stylish enough for all day wearing.  In a time when I’m especially missing the in-person support I rely on from my favorite group fitness classes, it’s been the training partner I’ve needed to keep me motivated and feeling my best.” 

Designed to be the official shoe of fitness, the Nano X1 fuses the comfort of a running shoe while maintaining the performance credentials of a superior training shoe in order to meet the demands of the modern-day fitness landscape. Whether it’s HIIT, bootcamp, cardio, dance, boxing, or functional training, the Nano X1 was engineered to perform.

Key details include:

  • Comfort: fuses Reebok’s Floatride Energy cushioning of a running shoe while maintaining the performance and stability of a training shoe
  • Speed: the sleek shape and design allow for maximum speed and runnability
  • Control: provides designed stability to support varied workouts

For the first time, the Nano will be available in multiple upper material options at launch – Flexweave Knit and Flexweave Grit – that consumers can choose from based on their individual training needs and preferences.  The Reebok Nano X1 features Flexweave Knit, a soft yet strong, style-driven upper that consists of an all-new knitted material, providing max breathability; while the Reebok Nano X1 Flexweave Grit features an ultra-strong, lightweight and durable material that’s built to withstand the most extreme workouts.

While the Reebok Nano X1 will be available in a wide range of color selections on its global launch date of February 3rd, a limited-edition release is available today, exclusively for UNLOCKED members on Reebok.com.  The “I’ll Call You Back” Nano X1 celebrates the individuals who are consistently making the time in their day to shut out the background noise and distractions and put in the work for their own personal development.  Available in a sleek, triple black colorway with reflective detailing, consumers will have access in select sizes starting today for this special limited release.

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ultraboost 21: latest edition of the iconic franchise delivering incredible energy return with every stride

Press release:

A team of our leading designers and product developers worked closely with the adidas running community and testers to create the new ULTRABOOST 21 silhouette, which reimagines the original ULTRABOOST to deliver a bold new design combined with the latest in performance technology.

The core development in ULTRABOOST 21 is the redesign of the shoe’s torsion system. The new adidas LEP (‘Linear Energy Push’) provides a 15% increase in forefoot bending stiffness for a more responsive stride. This works alongside our proprietary midsole BOOST technology, which packs in 6% more BOOST through an exaggerated heel curve, providing runners with incredible energy return and comfort in every step.

We have always believed that through sport, we have the power to transform lives and ULTRABOOST 21 embodies its commitment to bring energy to people to drive positive change and self-betterment. Arriving at a time when cities around the world have been heavily disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic, running has continued to be a constant that has kept cities and communities moving.

A global study, commissioned by us, highlighted the power of running to aid positive transformation and improved physical and mental wellbeing in communities. Runners were shown to be 20% more likely than non-runners to experience increased energy levels, while over 40% of respondents that increased their running frequency, also said that they developed a more positive outlook on life. Over 1 in 3, meanwhile, identified the mental health benefits of running as one of their core motivating factors.

“ULTRABOOST has consistently been a unique and sensational blend of iconic design, revolutionary innovations, unparalleled performance and unique consumer experience. BOOST and PRIMEKNIT have created and elevated new industry standards, while PRIMEBLUE has set a new benchmark of sustainability and adidas LEP is setting new standards of performance. ULTRABOOST has always been a “first”, a ”pioneer”, delighting millions of worldwide users every day, winning their hearts and minds and changing the way they see and feel running.” Said Alberto Uncini Manganelli, General Manager/Senior Vice President, adidas Running.

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Saucony® Introduces All-New Peregrine 11 Trail Collection

Press Release:

Global performance running lifestyle brand Saucony has unveiled the all-new Peregrine 11 Collection, a triad of grippy, protective trail shoes built on a trusted foundation of PWRTRAC™ rubber lugs and PWRRUN™ cushioning that feels both aggressive and responsive. Named for the fastest bird on Earth, the award-winning Peregrine Collection includes the always capable Peregrine 11 with grippy versatility to handle nearly every trail; the Peregrine 11 ST for muddy, sloppy conditions; and the Peregrine 11 GTX® with waterproof protection. The Peregrine 11 Collection will be available at saucony.com and select running specialty retailers globally beginning Feb. 1, 2021.

“With new runners and more traditional road runners taking to the trails in record numbers, the award-winning Peregrine is a trustworthy companion that excels in all that matters: traction, cushioning and durability,” said Katie Pyle, product line manager for Saucony Trail. “The 11 builds on the shoe’s winning formula of dirt-power goodness, being equally at home on the sandstone slickrock of Utah or at a 5K mud fest in Vermont. We know the Peregrine 11 Collection will inspire runners of all levels to revel in the challenge and joy of off-road running, elevating their running experience while forging a deeper connection with themselves and the great outdoors.”

About the Peregrine 11 Collection

The latest generation of the renowned Peregrine extends the limits of performance innovation on many levels. All three shoes of the Peregrine 11 Collection (Peregrine 11; Peregrine 11 ST; Peregrine 11 GTX) offer aggressive lugs made of PWRTRAC tacky rubber that conform to dig in and confidently grip a wide variety of terrain. PWRRUN midsole cushioning provides more flexibility, durability, responsiveness and protection to push uphill and drive downhill with confidence. A rock plate provides additional underfoot protection from trail debris while a mapped outsole guides runner on where to perfectly place studs or drainage holes. The Peregrine 11 Collection is designed with a 4mm offset, allowing the foot to move naturally and uninhibited while increasing the runner’s proprioception and balance over tricky trails.

Peregrine 11: Hit the trails at peak speed.

Runners will love the responsiveness, sticky traction and teeth-like tread of this fast trailblazer. A new, dynamic upper uses a durable ultralight top layer to protect feet from trail debris. Saucony’s most versatile trail shoe, it’s packed with everything runners need to move fast over rugged terrain.

Peregrine 11 ST: Go off trail. Not off speed.

When the ground gets soft, the Peregrine 11 ST shines. Taking the responsive feel of the Peregrine 11, the ST (soft terrain) version is modified to excel in sloppy, muddy conditions. It’s equipped with deeper lugs, spaced out to dig in and shed mud fast. The rock plate on the Peregrine 11 ST is enclosed for underfoot protection and to safeguard from mud. Up top, a debris-resistant mesh upper with 3D-printed overlays protects against trail hazards and is finished with a tight mesh shield over the tongue for a final measure of defense.

Peregrine 11 GTX: All trails. Any forecast.

From summer squall to snowstorm, rain and snow, feet stay dry and comfortable in the waterproof Peregrine 11 GTX. Starting with the brand’s most versatile and most trusted trail shoe, the GTX version is packed with everything runners need to move fast over rugged terrain. A GORE-TEX upper is added for lightweight, flexible, waterproof protection.

Multi-Award-Winning Heritage

Since the shoe’s original debut in Spring 2011, the Peregrine has been named by Runner’s World as “Editor’s Choice” four times.

Peregrine 11 Collection Availability

The Peregrine 11 Collection will be available at saucony.com and select running specialty retailers globally beginning Feb. 1, 2021. ThePeregrine 11 will be available in men’s sizes 7-13 and 14, and women’s sizes 5-12. The suggested retail price of the Peregrine 11 is $120.00; the Peregrine 11 ST is $130.00; and the Peregrine 11 GTX is $150.00.

To find a Saucony retailer near you, call 800-365-4933 or visit here.

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About Saucony: Saucony, a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc. (NYSE: WWW), is a leading global running lifestyle brand that fuses performance, innovation and style to create compelling footwear and apparel with its widely recognized brands Saucony and Saucony Originals. Founded in 1898, Saucony exists to empower the human spirit, with every stride, on every run, in every community. The brand’s call to action, Run for Good, is Saucony’s invitation to people everywhere to experience the transformative power of running.Saucony’s award-winning innovations include PWRRUN™ PB, PWRRUN+™, and FORMFIT™. At Saucony, a good day is when we run. A better day is when we inspire others to run. For more information, go to www.saucony.com.

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The Nike React Infinity Run 2 and the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run: Keeping You Strong and Carrying On

Press Release:

A goal as ambitious as reducing running injuries can be approached in two ways. One is to refine an existing silhouette to make it even more effective. The other is to introduce a fresh solution. To that end, the Nike React Infinity Run 2 and Nike ZoomX Invincible Run continue the mission from Nike Running to crack the injury-prevention code, serving everyday runners by creating a new relationship among cushioning, stability and rocker geometry.

The iterative step is the Nike React Infinity Run 2, which features an updated Flyknit upper to help promote more strength and support in the toe, eye-stay and foxing, and with more breathability in areas like the vamp and the midfoot (Nike Flywire cables have also been added throughout the upper to help increase support). The collar is also updated to feel more plush without adding weight or bulk.

A new step altogether in the search for harmony among cushioning, stability and rocker geometry is the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run. The midsole is made with responsive ZoomX foam, which returns more energy underfoot than any other Nike foam.

Created for long training runs, the Invincible silhouette includes more foam in the midsole than React foam in the Infinity, creating a soft ride while returning more energy for improved running economy. The rocker geometry and the wider nets in the forefoot help create a more stable ride and fluid stride transition (compared with the more springy transition of plated running footwear), making the Invincible ideal for higher mileage runs.

The Nike React Infinity Run 2 and the Nike ZoomX Invincible Run release globally beginning January 7.

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RunEASI wearable enables runners to train and rehabilitate more efficiently

The wearable is worn around the waist.

Being able to exercise without pain or injury: it’s every athlete’s dream as well as the goal of RunEASI, a new spin-off of KU Leuven. RunEASI’s wearable measures the impact experienced by runners and provides scientific feedback that can help them avoid and recover from injuries. The spin-off is supported by the Gemma Frisius Fund and the Freshmen investment fund.

Runners typically use a heart rate monitor, but this device does not offer insight into how the body responds to the impact caused by the feet landing on the ground. And yet, this impact is precisely what determines the risk of injuries. RunEASI – which originated from a collaboration between movement and computer scientists at KU Leuven – has therefore developed a wearable application that does assess these important parameters.

This is achieved using a sensor that is attached to the lower back with a belt and is connected to an app. The sensors measures the impact on the body while running and detects any movement compensations that may occur. The app provides feedback to improve the running pattern. RunEASI is the first application that can perform such an analysis and intervention in a scientifically validated and efficient way. The application will be available on the market as of mid-February 2021.

Stability, symmetry, impact

“We are trying to establish the link between the way in which someone runs, the associated impact loads, and the risk of injuries,” says Professor Benedicte Vanwanseele from the Human Movement Biomechanics unit at KU Leuven. “Three parameters are key to this: stability, symmetry, and impact.”

“Research has shown that trunk instability increases with a runner’s fatigue level. When this is combined with high impact loads, this creates a compensatory pattern that increases the risk of overuse injuries. Symmetry shows whether the impact is equally divided between left and right: after an injury, for instance, a runner may favour one leg without realising it. Last, but not least, the impact parameter shows how the body responds to the shocks that occur when the foot strikes the ground.”

“Our tool intervenes when the data show that the runner has a harmful running pattern,” says computer science professor Jesse Davis. “AI allows us to analyse when the body is exposed to the most severe impacts. This can depend on the surface, the pace, the duration of the training, the runner’s fatigue, and other factors. On the basis of this analysis, coaches and physiotherapists can proactively adjust the runners’ training.”

More insight and better support

“With RunEASI we want to help runners, whether it be professional or recreational ones, to achieve their goals with less risk of injury,” explain co-founders Kurt Schütte (CEO) and Tim Op De Beéck (CTO). “The way our sensor is attached is unique and was developed in cooperation with the orthopaedic experts at Steunzoolpunt. It enables us to measure our new movement metrics very efficiently and accurately. Physiotherapists can use this scientific analysis to better assess when someone is ready to resume training after an injury.”

“We strongly believe in digital tools that improve a person’s quality of life, and this ambition is also reflected in RunEASI,” says Steven Spittaels of the Freshmen investment fund. “It’s an application that, thanks to its scientific feedback, can be of great added value to runners and professional healthcare providers. Athletes obviously want to know how to stay injury free and we want to support RunEASI to help them achieve this.”

“We are extremely grateful for the belief and financial support of the Gemma Frisius Fund and Freshmen Fund,” responds CEO Kurt Schütte. “With their support, we can fulfil our mission and ambition to make the world run better.”

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More information

The RunEASI wearable can be pre-ordered and will be available as of mid-February 2021. Check the website for further information: runeasi.ai

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Amendment to development shoe rules in international competitions

Press Release:

World Athletics has approved a change to its rules governing development (prototype) shoes following requests by all major shoe manufacturers and the industry body that represents them, the World Federation of the Sports Goods Industry (‘WFSGI’).

The amendment to the rule will allow development shoes to be worn in international competitions and competitions sanctioned by Member Federations where World Athletics rules are applied, prior to their availability to other athletes, upon approval of the shoe specifications by World Athletics. These shoes will have to meet the same technical specifications as all other approved shoes.

Development shoes can continue to be worn in any competition where World Athletics’ competition and technical rules are not applied.

The amendment, approved by World Athletics’ Council on 4 December, applies with immediate effect, to competitions sanctioned by World Athletics, Area Associations or Member Federations at which World Athletics’ Competition Rules and Technical Rules are enforced, but will not be permitted to be worn at the World Athletics Series or the Olympic Games.

The development shoe can only be worn for a 12 month ‘development’ period.

A list of approved development shoes will be posted on the World Athletics website stating the date from which the development shoe can be worn and the expiry date for approval. To date there is a list of 200 (spikes and non-spikes) approved shoes listed and published on the World Athletics website.

This new proposal will be complemented by an athletic shoe availability scheme for shoes which is being developed by a Working Group on Athletic Shoes with representatives from shoe manufacturers and the World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI).

World Athletics CEO Jon Ridgeon said: “The use of competition to complete the final testing of development shoes by manufacturers has always been an important part of the shoe development process. This year has been a difficult one for both shoe manufacturers and athletes with significant disruption to manufacturing and reduced access to competitions for athletes around the world.

“With shoe manufacturers agreeing to our new process of submitting specifications and shoes, if required, for approval ahead of being worn in competition, we are confident that this amendment will not impact the integrity of competition.”

Summary of notes relating to the new rule:

“Development shoe” means a shoe (i.e. spike or road shoes) which has never been available for purchase but which a sports manufacturer is developing to bring to market and would like to conduct tests with their sponsored athletes (who agree to test the shoe) on issues such as safety and performance before the shoe is available for purchase.

Development shoes are not required to be made available for purchase or subject to the availability scheme provided that, prior to being worn for the first time, the development shoe meets the following conditions:

  • the athlete (or their representative) must submit the specification to World Athletics and, where requested, provide a sample of the development shoe for further examination which includes, if necessary, cutting up the shoe, and provide the date and event of the first competition at which the athlete wishes to compete in a development shoe
  • confirm the latest date upon which the sports manufacturer will make the final version of the development shoe available for purchase which must be not be later than 12 months after the first time the development shoe is worn in a competition.
  • the athlete (or their representative) submits to World Athletics a list containing the date and event of the first and all subsequent competitions at which the athlete proposes to wear a development shoe within the 12 month period. The athlete (or their representative) must notify World Athletics of any changes to that list.
  • the athlete (or their representative) has received prior written approval from World Athletics that the development shoe complies with the requirements of Rule 5 of the Technical Rules and is approved for use in competitions.
  • Subject to compliance with all rules and regulations (including this Rule 5 of the Technical Rules and these notes), performances achieved by an athlete wearing a development shoe will be valid. After the conclusion of a competition a development shoe must be handed over by the athlete on request by World Athletics for further investigation by World Athletics which includes, if necessary, cutting up the development shoe.
  • World Athletics will publish from time to time on its website a list of approved development shoes stating the date starting from which the development shoe can be worn and the expiry date for approval. No technical or proprietary information belonging to a sports manufacturer will be published.
  • After the expiry date specified the shoe no longer qualifies as a development shoe and can no longer be used in competitions. The shoe will be removed from the approved list after its expiry date and, subject to compliance with all rules and regulations (including this Rule 5 of the Technical Rules and these notes), results achieved by an athlete wearing the development shoe will remain valid.
  • In accordance with the rules and regulations, World Athletics reserves the right to classify a result as ‘Uncertified’ (‘UNC TR5.5’) or declare the athlete’s performance as invalid for non-compliance with Technical Rule 5.

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ASICS LAUNCHES LONG-TERM VISION “VISION2030”

ASICS has launched its new ten-year long-term vision, “VISION2030”. The vision, which extends through 2030, presents long-term targets for ASICS to become the company it aspires to be in the future.

Our society and the environment have been undergoing huge changes at unprecedented speed. Digital technology is now a part of the everyday lives of many people and offers new value and experiences. On the other hand, new social issues related to our health have arisen as we have fewer opportunities to move our bodies as our lifestyles become richer and more convenient. As a result, awareness of health conditions from both mind and body perspective will likely grow even more around the world.

ASICS’ founding philosophy is a sound mind in a sound body, and it represents our wish to enable healthy and fulfilled lives to people. In this changing world, our founding philosophy will be more required from society and people than ever in the future. ASICS will continue to offer products, services, and an environment that contribute to improving health conditions from both mind and body perspective across a wider spectrum while it continues to honor our philosophy as its core.

Over the next 10 years and longer, ASICS plans to expand its business in three domains, Product, Facility and Community, and Analysis and Diagnosis.

The Product domain will create a framework for developing personalized products based on customers’ individual preferences and varied senses of value and delivering them quickly. The Facility and Community domain will offer opportunities to start and continue sports as well as sites for anyone and everyone to enjoy sports at any time and in any place, either in reality or virtually, in order to contribute to the good health of more people. The Analysis and Diagnosis domain will support maintenance and improvement of individuals’ health and performance using analytical diagnostic methods developed based on expertise accumulated over many years and data collected using sensing and other new technologies.

All three business domains will share the three common themes of digital, personal, and sustainable. Using always-evolving digital technology, the business domains will develop and offer personalized products and services with environmentally conscious sustainable methods.

Based on these three themes, ASICS plans to generate synergies by combining the three individual business domains while growing each individual domain and also maximize value. Then, by offering optimal value to each and every customer from various angles, ASICS intends to contribute to enabling healthy and fulfilled lives.

ASICS’ new mid-term management plan will begin in 2021. As the world undergoes rapid changes and moves forward, ASICS will ensure that all employees share its vision for the future through “VISION2030” and focus on business activities with a new perspective in line with the times. Then, based on its core founding philosophy of contributing to the healthful bodies and minds of all people throughout the world, ASICS will strive to be a trusted company that delivers clear value to society for a bright future.

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Study reveals physical demands of two-hour marathon

Some of the elites runners were tested at Exeter Arena

Press release:

Elite runners need a specific combination of physiological abilities to have any chance of running a sub-two-hour marathon, new research shows.

The study is based on detailed testing of athletes who took part in Nike’s Breaking2 project – an ambitious bid to break the two-hour barrier.

Professor Andrew Jones, of the University of Exeter, said the findings reveal that elite marathon runners must have a “perfect balance” of VO2 max (rate of oxygen uptake), efficiency of movement and a high “lactate turn point” (above which the body experiences more fatigue).

The VO2 measured among elite runners shows they can take in oxygen twice as fast at marathon pace as a “normal” person of the same age could while sprinting flat-out.

“Some of the results – particularly the VO2 max – were not actually as high as we expected,” Professor Jones said.

“Instead, what we see in the physiology of these runners is a perfect balance of characteristics for marathon performance.

“The requirements of a two-hour marathon have been extensively debated, but the actual physiological demands have never been reported before.”

The runners in the study included Eliud Kipchoge, who took part in Breaking2 – falling just short of the two-hour target – but later achieving the goal in 1:59:40.2 in the Ineos 1:59 challenge.

Based on outdoor running tests on 16 athletes in the selection stage of Breaking2, the study found that a 59kg runner would need to take in about four litres of oxygen per minute (or 67ml per kg of weight per minute) to maintain two-hour marathon pace (21.1 km/h).

“To run for two hours at this speed, athletes must maintain what we call ‘steady-state’ VO2,” Professor Jones said.

“This means they meet their entire energy needs aerobically (from oxygen) – rather than relying on anaerobic respiration, which depletes carbohydrate stores in the muscles and leads to more rapid fatigue.”

In addition to VO2 max, the second key characteristic is running “economy”, meaning the body must use oxygen efficiently – both internally and through an effective running action.

The third trait, lactate turn point, is the percentage of VO2 max a runner can sustain before anaerobic respiration begins.

“If and when this happens, carbohydrates in the muscles are used at a high rate, depleting glycogen stores,” Professor Jones explained.

“At this point – which many marathon runners may know as ‘the wall’ – the body has to switch to burning fat, which is less efficient and ultimately means the runner slows down.

“The runners we studied – 15 of the 16 from East Africa – seem to know intuitively how to run just below their ‘critical speed’, close to the ‘lactate turn point’ but never exceeding it.

“This is especially challenging because – even for elite runners – the turn point drops slightly over the course of a marathon.

“Having said that, we suspect that the very best runners in this group, especially Eliud Kipchoge, show remarkable fatigue resistance.”

The testing, conducted in Exeter and at Nike’s performance centre in Oregon, USA, provided a surprising experience for a group of amateur runners in the UK.

“We tested 11 of the 16 runners at Exeter Arena a few years ago,” Professor Jones said.

“Some local runners were there at the time, and it was a real eye-opener for them when a group of the world’s best athletes turned up.

“The elite runners were great – they even joined in with the local runners and helped to pace their training.”

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MBT Unveils Its Most Ambitious Performance Running Shoe Yet

Press Release:

Powered by MBT’s patented curved-sole technology and a bold aesthetic, the new Huracan 3000 signals a daring new era for brand

Saint Louis, Missouri — Blending their renowned health properties with decidedly modern running-shoe design and materials, global footwear brand MBT – who invented the now-ubiquitous deeply cushioned, rocker-midsole shoes – is thrilled to announce its most daring and advanced performance running shoe to date: the Huracan 3000.

The premium $199 performance running shoe will be available in select specialty retail stores and MBT-owned locations around the world as well as on MBT.com and their Amazon storefront starting in early November.

For those eager to make running easier and more efficient, the Swiss-engineered, high-end neutral trainer fuels uninterrupted movement as the Huracan’s unique rocker sole promotes a gentle rolling motion that spurs a natural, stress-free cadence from impact to toe-off.

“The Huracan’s arrival is the start of a revolution for us at MBT, our first step toward the most cutting-edge and premium lineup of performance running footwear in the marketplace,” says CEO Andy Chaw. “As the pioneers of the rocker bottom, we’re taking our proven curved-sole technology, which we’ve been perfecting since our founding in 1996, and combining that with new technologies and forward-thinking designs that confirm our commitment to being the most innovative, health-focused running brand in the world.”

The Huracan is MBT’s answer to a growing trend in the industry toward energy return and shock dissipation, usually accomplished with a composite plate running through the midsole. But to accomplish similar results, MBT instead designed an entirely new midsole/outsole combination they’re calling MIDS. Together with their Sensor Technology, which provides MBT’s signature ‘walking-on-sand’ feel, MIDS absorbs impact and dissipates shock outward in the heel/midfoot, reducing the amount of vibration the emanates up through the body, reducing stress on the body and encouraging enhanced balance and stability. Then their renowned PIVOT STRIKE rocker completes the process, actively rolling the foot through toe-off with every step. The end result: a cushioned, responsive running experience from impact to toe-off that minimizes fatigue and promotes continuous forward movement.

Other Features:

  • Exo-heel counter cradles the foot for optimum support and security
  • Memory foam liner provides a custom fit for each runner’s heel and Achilles tendon
  • At the forefoot, M-Flex Technology – a durable, yet flexible mesh at the toe box – adapts to a runner’s foot during different stages of a run
  • The Jacquard Mesh upper is both lightweight and breathable with minimal seams
  • High-abrasion outsole offers superior strength and enhanced traction for running on various surfaces or in slick conditions.
  • Cut-outs in the rubber outsole reduce weight and contribute to the smooth ride
  • Unapologetically modern aesthetic blends a premium fit with a stylish, on-trend design
  • Reflective elements integrated into the upper’s webbing, the MBT M-wing logo, and heel counter add subtle flashes of color contrast and ensure safety for nighttime running
  • MSRP: $199 USD
  • Sizes: U.S. Men’s 8-13 in three colors (Lime Green/Blue Indigo; Black/Castlerock; Dusty Blue/Blue Indigo)
  • S. Women’s 6-12 in three colors (Lime Green/Blue Indigo; Black/Castlerock; Dusty Blue/Blue Indigo)

“We’ve worked hard to get inside the minds of runners, to understand what they want and need, and have come to understand that they expect running footwear that not only performs at the highest level, but also looks good,” Chaw says. “That’s what the Huracan provides and it’s symbolic of the boundaries we’re going to push at MBT.”

About MBT

Founded in 1996, MBT, which stands for Masai Barefoot Technology, was inspired by Kenya’s Masai tribe, a group that has lived for thousands of years with virtually no joint or back pain. Powered by its pioneering rocker bottom soles, a design many others have attempted to imitate, MBT claims a 24-year track record of helping people stand, walk, run, work, and play more efficiently and effectively.

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