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Carbon plate running shoes are not only a popular choice among high-performance athletes, for whom they were originally designed, but also among runners and amateur runners. Although these shoes have positioned themselves as a tool to improve times and facilitate training, especially during the most demanding sessions, experts have warned that their repeated and continuous use can cause various damage and injuries. Therefore, we must be clear about how to use them and under what conditions they are recommended in order not to damage ourselves in a prolonged or chronic way
What are carbon plate shoes and how to use them
If you are not familiar with this tool, you probably do not know what benefits or improvements they bring to the race. Carbon plate running shoes are used for running certain distances. They incorporate a carbon fiber sheet in the midsole, which results in improved performance and efficiency for the runner. The plate generates a spring effect that improves propulsion and helps save energy during the run.
Carbon plate shoes are not allowed in all competitions. However, they are very useful for specific quality training and for prolonged effort, avoiding early muscle fatigue
The dark side of carbon-plated trainers
Despite their benefits, the negative or exaggerated use of this type of footwear can be extremely detrimental to the runner who uses them
The prolonged use of carbon-plated shoes can alter the mechanics of the foot and running, causing the foot to get used to not making efforts and not exercising. This will cause the muscles in some areas of the body to relax and others to become tense, which could lead to multiple injuries
One of the most common is Achilles tendon rupture. This injury can be caused by reduced load on the ankle, which causes the tendon to weaken. When not exercised, it tends to tear when extra effort is made with another type of shoe or when training is more demanding
Plantar fasciitis is also one of the injuries that can be suffered. The plate reduces flexion in this area, causing stiffness and pain. In extension, the posterior tibialis, anterior tibialis and peroneus can be affected as a consequence of the change in running biomechanics. Stress fractures are also common in athletes who overuse this type of footwear
To mitigate these problems, it is essential to strengthen tendons and muscles, alternate footwear and, above all, check whether you really need this type of shoe, taking into your fitness level and running pace