Title: Running in Flats Vs. Spikes | Live Healthy - Chron.com
Headings: Running in Flats Vs. Spikes
Running in Flats Vs. Spikes
Track Spikes and Speed
Minimalist Shoes and Efficiency
Shoe Type Transitioning Prevents Injury
Track Spike Shape Matters

Content: Track athletes choosing between spikes and flats face such a dilemma. Yet, changing the workout schedule and choosing the right spike shape can help you reach your goals. Track Spikes and Speed
Joseph William Foster started selling track spikes in the 1890s. An avid runner, Foster designed the spikes for greater traction and more speed. His design became popular, and several athletes won Olympic medals wearing his spikes. Yet, little research has addressed whether track spikes actually enhance performance. A December 2015 thesis from the University of Leon compared spikes and flats. Women wearing spikes completed a 40-meter race about 1.8 percent faster than those wearing flats. Close inspection of the data revealed an interesting fact. The greater traction of the spikes made the sprinters 1.2 percent faster, and their lighter weight made them 0.6 percent faster.