Feasibility and usability of GPS data in exploring associations between training load and running-related knee injuries in recreational runners

Kyra L.A. Cloosterman*, Tryntsje Fokkema, Robert Jan de Vos, Ben van Oeveren, Sita M.A. Bierma-Zeinstra, Marienke van Middelkoop

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

4 Citations (Scopus)
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Abstract

Background: The purpose of the present study was to explore the feasibility of collecting GPS data and the usability of GPS data to evaluate associations between the training load and onset of running-related knee injuries (RRKIs). Methods: Participants of the INSPIRE-trial, a randomized-controlled trial on running injury prevention, were asked to participate in this study. At baseline, demographic variables were collected. Follow-up questionnaires assessed information on RRKIs. Participants with a new reported RRKI and uninjured participants were sent a GPS export request. Weekly GPS-based training distances were used to calculate Acute:Chronic Workload Ratios (ACWRs). Results: A total of 240 participants (62.7%) tracked their running training sessions with the use of a GPS-enabled device or platform and were willing to share their GPS data. From the participants (N = 144) who received a GPS export request, 50.0% successfully shared their data. The majority (69.4%) of the shared GPS data were usable for analyses (N = 50). GPS data were used to present weekly ACWRs of participants with and without an RRKI eight weeks prior to RRKI onset or running event. Conclusions: It seems feasible to collect GPS data from GPS-enabled devices and platforms used by recreational runners. The results indicate that GPS data is usable to calculate weekly ACWRs to evaluate associations between training load and onset of RRKIs in recreational runners. Therefore, GPS-based ACWR measures can be used for future studies to evaluate associations between training load and onset of RRIs.

Original languageEnglish
Article number78
JournalBMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation
Volume14
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 28 Apr 2022

Bibliographical note

Funding:
The INSPIRE trial was funded by the Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development (ZonMW, Grant Number 536001001).

Publisher Copyright: © 2022, The Author(s).

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