What is the effect of utilizing free energy during running?

Utilizing free energy during running significantly reduces active muscle requirements, which means that the muscles can perform their functions more efficiently with less energy expenditure. Free energy, often derived from elastic energy stored in tendons and other tissues, allows runners to take advantage of the natural mechanics of their body. For example, during activities like running, the elastic components can store energy when the foot strikes the ground and release it during the push-off phase, contributing to forward motion without requiring additional muscular effort.

This reduction in active muscle demands leads to less fatigue and allows for an increase in endurance, as the body can sustain running for longer periods without exhausting the energy reserves. Consequently, runners can maintain a more efficient running form and improve overall performance. While other choices like increasing muscle demands or oxygen consumption might seem relevant in some contexts, they do not align with the primary benefit of utilizing free energy, which is about conserving energy while maintaining performance.