Does Energy Return Enhance Running Performance?

Hilary Topper On Air

What if everything we thought we knew about running shoes, from energy return to performance enhancement, was wrong?

Scott Tucker, the CEO of Vimazi is today's guest on Hilary Topper on Air. During the interview, I asked Scott some questions about Energy Return and Performance.

• Can you explain what made you question the conventional wisdom surrounding running shoes?
• You mentioned that the concept of energy return in running shoes, which many brands highlight as a key feature, is fundamentally flawed. Can you break down why this idea is scientifically incorrect?
• Most people believe that the energy return from shoes, thanks to materials like carbon plates and special foams, helps them run faster. Why do you say this is a misconception, and what is the real impact of these materials on performance?
• You’ve explained that the human body, with its multiple joints, doesn’t behave like a rigid object. How does this biomechanical reality contradict the idea of energy return in shoes?
• If the energy from the shoe is balanced by the energy exerted by our muscles, leading to no net gain, why do so many people still feel like these shoes help them perform better? Could there be psychological factors at play?

• What are the potential risks for runners who rely on these supposed energy-returning shoes? How might they be inadvertently increasing stress on their muscles and tendons?
• You've designed a shoe technology that reduces the cumulative stress on muscles and tendons over time. Can you explain how your approach differs from traditional shoe designs, and what benefits runners can expect?
• With less cumulative stress from your shoe technology, how can runners expect this to impact their training and injury prevention in the long term?
• How do you see the future of running shoe design evolving now that we have a better understanding of these biomechanical realities?
• For runners who want to make informed decisions about their footwear, what advice would you give them to cut through the marketing noise and choose shoes that truly support their performance and health?
• And finally, Scott, how can our listeners get in touch with you or learn more about Vimazi?

Get in Touch with Vimazi by going to http://www.Vimazi.com. To get a special discount off any of their shoes, use code: runwithoutpain2024