The ability of a 3d spring mass model to predict stance phase dynamics of a cutting manoeuvre in humans

Three-dimensional spring-mass models can be used to study the dynamics and control of running. Cutting manoeuvres are used by running humans to change direction and are of interest because of their relationship to performance and injury. Here we investigate the utility of a 3D spring-mass model for cutting dynamics. We collected kinematic and kinetic data during running cuts in 63 participants and compared experimental to modelled results. The model captured basic relationships between initial conditions and take-off parameters. Change of heading angle and vertical velocity at take-off were overestimated; contact time and horizontal velocity at take-off were underestimated. The 3D spring-mass model appears to show promise as a model for cutting manoeuvres, although further refinement is needed.