What is a potential drawback of shoe cushioning according to research?

The potential drawback of shoe cushioning, as indicated by research, is that it may diminish the effect of the stretch-shortening cycle (SSC). The stretch-shortening cycle is a natural mechanism in running where muscles and tendons store and release elastic energy, contributing to efficiency and power during movement. Excessive cushioning can interfere with the sensory feedback that runners receive from the ground. This feedback is crucial for the effective operation of the SSC, as it allows runners to react and adapt their stride dynamically to the forces they encounter while running.

When cushioning is too soft or overly abundant, it may inhibit the optimal loading and unloading of muscles and tendons during the running gait. As a result, instead of enhancing performance, overly cushioned footwear could lead to reduced biomechanical efficiency and less effective energy transfer, ultimately affecting the runner's performance negatively. Understanding this relationship helps coaches and athletes make informed choices about footwear that supports their running goals while also considering the biomechanics of running.