Specialized feet stiffening socks may increase human running efficiency
Researchers designed socks that squeeze specific areas of the foot, which could reduce energy expenditure during walking and running.
FTMQ Science, written by our newsroom0 views
Engineers developed specialized socks designed to increase the efficiency of human gait by compressing specific areas of the foot. New Scientist reported that the clothing features tight bands placed around the ball of the foot to stiffen the structure during movement. The research team was led by Owen Beck and Hui Tang at the University of Texas at Austin. [1]
The foot stiffening effect created by the socks makes both walking and running easier for the wearer. According to New Scientist, the researchers calculated that the resulting decrease in energy expenditure is equal to the energy an average person would save by losing two kilograms of body weight. [1]
The developers aim to see the technology adopted by high level athletes in upcoming international competitions. New Scientist reported that Owen Beck hopes elite runners will wear the feet stiffening socks during the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. [1]
In short
- Tight bands placed around the ball of the foot in socks stiffen the foot to make running easier.
- The energy savings from wearing the socks are equivalent to an average person losing two kilograms.
- Researchers Owen Beck and Hui Tang at the University of Texas at Austin developed the socks.
- Owen Beck hopes elite athletes will use the foot stiffening socks at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Sources
Every paragraph above points to the numbered items it rests on. Read the originals here.
- [1]Feet-stiffening socks could help you run further for longerNew Scientist, 2h ago (the report this story comes from)
Background
- [2]Miniskirt on Wikipedia
Our newsroom writes these reports with the help of software, from the 2 sources listed and nothing else, and checks them against those sources. Facts can still be wrong or move on; the originals are the record. Spotted a mistake? Write to daniel@monsterkong.com.
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