COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF VARIOUS FOOT ARCHES ON DYNAMIC BALANCE, SPEED PERFORMANCE AND JUMPING ABILITY AMONG SHORT-DISTANCE RUNNERS AND MIDDLE -DISTANCE RUNNERS

Introduction: The structural configuration of the human foot, including its longitudinal and transverse arches, plays a important role in stability, propulsion, and overall running performance. Variations in foot arches classified as low (flat), normal, and high may influence dynamic balance, sprinting ability, and jumping performance. Given the distinct biomechanical demands of short-distance and middle-distance running, understanding these influences is essential for optimizing athletic performance. Methods: Forty-eight competitive runners were randomly assigned into short-distance (n = 24) and middle-distance (n = 24) groups. Foot arch types were determined using the Navicular Drop Test. Dynamic balance was assessed with the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), speed performance with the 40-Yard Dash Test, and jumping ability with the Vertical Jump Test (VJT). Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: Among 48 runners, low-arch athletes demonstrated the highest vertical jump height (short-distance: 52.07±0.0 cm; middle-distance: 42.02±3.97 cm), outperforming normal (45.82±7.34, 40.10±3.13) and high arches (46.07±11.60, 42.64±0.0) (p=0.001). For 40-yard dash, high-arch short-distance runners were fastest (4.81±0.01 sec), followed by normal (5.54±0.32) and low arches (6.96±0.23) (p=0.001). Middle-distance sprint times were slowest in high arches (7.52±0.0) versus low (6.37±0.47) and normal (7.09±0.52) (p=0.001). Dynamic balance was optimal in high-arch short-distance runners (right: 87.54±3.39; left: 88.14±3.37) and normal-arch middle-distance runners (right: 90.70±2.51; left: 92.27±2.42) (p=0.05). Conclusion: Foot arch type significantly influences athletic performance. Low-arch runners demonstrated superior vertical jump height across both distances. High-arch short-distance runners excelled in speed and dynamic balance, whereas low-arch middle-distance runners achieved fastest sprint times. Normal-arch middle-distance runners showed optimal dynamic balance. These findings support personalized training interventions based on individual foot arch characteristics.

This study examines the impact of foot arch types on athletic performance in runners.