Biomechanics of the walk-to-run transition in humans

How and why humans choose to transition from walking to running was explored from a biomechanical perspective. Through calculations of individual joint load, work and muscular effort it was determined that we transition due to limitations at the ankle leading to a compensation at the hip. Furthermore, irrespective of transition speed, work is required to transition to running (even when decelerating) with horizontal work redirected vertically. Alignment of transition speed with muscular effort minimisation, supports the joint load and work alterations occurring to reduce muscular effort.