Simon arrived at the Physiology lab in the new Physical Education and Sport Sciences building at UL for baseline testing apprehensive at what was in store, but with a nonetheless positive attitude. The aim was to get some resting measurements of lactate and heart rate, and to carry out a simultaneous measure of Simon’s maximal oxygen consumption capacity (vVO2max) and establish the treadmill speed at which he reached his lactate threshold. These tests involved the use of a metabolic cart to determine Simon’s oxygen consumption and blood sampling by pricking of the ear to measure his blood lactate concentration at increasing speeds.

When designing the test protocol Ciara Sinnott-O’Connor (UL PhD student) and I took into account Simon’s familiarity with the treadmill and the speed the blade was designed to run at. In doing so we ran into a few problems whereby Simon’s lactate values seemed initially very high and decreased despite an increase in treadmill speed (not what is supposed to happen!). In hindsight, we did not give Simon enough of a warm up to allow him to adapt his running style to the treadmill. Despite these problems we calculated Simon’s lactate threshold to occur at a running speed of 11-12km/h and heart rate of 155-165 BPM. We also calculated that Simon is capable of utilising 3.65 litres of oxygen per minute (or 40ml/kg/min) at max.

What does all this mean?

In simple terms, during exercise, the body requires oxygen to convert its energy stores to a form that is usable by the muscle. The more oxygen the body is capable of utilising the more energy that can be released for use during exercise. VO2max measures how much oxygen the body is capable of using. As Simon adapts to his training, his VO2max will increase, making more energy available to him during exercise and thus allowing him to run faster.

When we run/cycle/swim at high intensity the muscle produces lactic acid as a by-product of using energy. The human body can tolerate this to a certain point known as the lactate threshold. Once we begin to exercise at a speed faster than this, lactate begins to accumulate very quickly and is associated with pain/stiffness in the working limbs and we have to stop. During Simon’s training, by improving his VO2max and ability to deal with lactate, Simon will produce less lactate at a given speed, allowing him to run faster before reaching his threshold, thus improving the time which Simon will complete the marathon.

                                                                                                                                            Dr Brian Carson

A fantastic day was had at the Great Limerick Run and another 10k completed by Simon. With 4,500 people taking part it was an experience weaving in and out of the crowds and still trying to keep momentum going. It certainly tested lateral movements and Simon's ability to stop suddenly while using the blade. At times itthrough out it felt as though we were taking part in plyometric training from running up and down on footpaths. The weather was amazing, even a little too hot adding to the need for more uptake of water more frequently than usually required. All of this was of course learning curves. On top of all this we decided to run it barefoot, being well adjusted at this stage to the vibrams, it seemed like a perfect forum to put them to the real test and Simon felt fantastic on the Blade. On plus side there were no issues with muscle cramping, dehydrtaion or running form. On a down side it was an effort trying to get through the masses of people huddled together, making it difficult to keep a smooth pace. We crossed the finish line with a full 150mtr sprint to the delight of the crowds and with a finish time of 51min. A nice mild day of training for us...!
                                                                                                                                             Jason Kenny

Sunday turned out to be a nice day although windy, considering the forecast was set to be rain all day. Simon entered into the Joey Hannon Memorial as a chance of running with some very serious athletes and putting down some mileage. Although it was a little bit of a rush starting and getting ready he did exceptionally well. He completed the run in under 50min. He finished comfortable, which was always our goal and his confidence went up by miles (excuse the pun).
During that week I was very much undecided whether to let him run at all as there were quite a few adjustments needed to the Blade, although it's still not 100% yet he was comfortable and under no duress, and quite eager to do it. Looking back it was the right thing to do as being around other runners and the enormity of the event that it is all helped in preparation for what lies ahead. From here on in there will be plenty of road work, but always keeping an eye on progress and the avoidance of injury. Well don Simon..
                                                                                                                                               Jason Kenny

Biomechanics two months in…
Simon was back in the biomechanics lab today for his first follow-up tests since the baseline analysis. Dr Drew Harrison and I tested balance performance using an adapted Start Excursion Balance Test and also walking gait and running gait footstrike forces using an AMTI force platform.

The balance test required Simon to balance on one leg while reaching in a controlled movement with the opposite foot as far along forward diagonal and rear target lines on the floor as he could. For all the anterior balance directions Simon has improved 7%, with more pronounced balance improvements for the right IDS prosthetic leg.
We were concerned during baseline testing about the asymmetry between the left and right legs visually when walking and running, and for underfoot footstrike force. In January there was an 11.2% difference in underfoot vertical force between the legs, now in April there is only 2.5% difference.

Simon’s strength training with Jason for gluteals and medial quadriceps for the right amputee leg have made a huge difference to produce a smoother and more symmetrical running style.
We are Looking forward to the June set of biomechanics tests when we will assess drop jump power output again!

                                                                                                                                       Dr. Ian Kenny