Kinematic and dynamic similarities between walking and running

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The debate surrounding double transtibial amputee runner Oscar Pistorius and his potential advantage over able-bodied runners at the 2008 Olympics raised concerns about technology surpassing nature. However, no similar advancements in walking have been observed. The challenge lies in replicating a natural walking gait for amputees, while robotics has seen success with walking robots that function well under stable conditions. In contrast, running robots remain rare and often resemble walkers more than runners. There is a significant gap in the understanding of human gait mechanics, and a solid foundation of data is required for evaluating and validating theoretical and technical models. This book provides an extensive database on human walking and running, covering a wide range of speeds and including kinematic and dynamic variables. It aims to enhance knowledge of human gait and establish a fundamental understanding of leg and joint function. By examining the similarities and differences between walking and running, this work seeks to deepen the mechanical understanding of how a single bipedal system can perform both gaits effectively.