Evolution lower limb functional asymmetry in women's 400 m hurdles from 1978-2022

Janusz Iskra, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Opole University of Technology, Opole, PolandFollow
Wojciech Paśko, Institute of Physical Culture Science, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, PolandFollow
Paweł Gwiazdoń, Department of Science, Innovation and Development, Galen-Orthopedics, Bierun, PolandFollow
Magdalena Chanas, Department of Individual and Team Physical Activities, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wroclaw, PolandFollow
Krzysztof Przednowek, Institute of Physical Culture Science, University of Rzeszow, Rzeszow, PolandFollow

Abstract

Background: Functional asymmetry of the lower limbs in the technique of clearing 10 hurdles in the 400 m hurdles event was the subject of the study. Materials and methods: This study investigates the patterns of hurdle clearance, distinguishing between left and right lead legs by 196 female hurdlers competing in major championship events (including Olympic Games, World Championships, European Championships) from 1978 to 2022. The hurdlers were categorized into three groups based on competition periods: Group A (1978–2000), Group B (2001–2011), and Group C (2012–2022). The share of the left lead leg (assumed by most authors to be the lead one) in selected (two straights, two curves and the first and second half) parts of the run was assessed. Intergroup differences were assessed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) with subsequent post-hoc analysis (Tukey's test for unequal numbers). Results: The results demonstrate a systematic reduction in the number of hurdles cleared with the left leg. The changes mainly concern the first part of the run as well as the so-called landing in the curves of the hurdles (hurdles 6–8). Conclusions: The need for clearing hurdles with the left and right leg under different conditions (track shape, fatigue levels) forces coaches to modify the training process.

Recommended Citation

Iskra J, Pasko W, Gwiazdon P, Chanas M, Przednowek K. Evolution lower limb functional asymmetry in women's 400 m hurdles from 1978–2022. Balt J Health Phys Act. 2026;18(2):Article6. DOI: 10.29359/BJHPA.18.2.06