ARCS Scholar Alum from the University of Oregon, Rachel Robinson, is quite literally in the final stretch of her PhD. As she wraps up her research at the Bowerman Sports Science Center in Eugene, she analyzes the data she’s collected on a topic close to her heart: how biomechanics influence uphill running performance.
“I’ve just completed my final data collections and will be finishing up the remaining analysis and writing throughout the spring term,” she shares. Her work delves into the oxygen consumption rate while running, which determines running economy, similar to a car’s fuel efficiency. “Specifically, I’ve studied how biomechanics, or running form, influence running economy when running uphill.”
Rachel’s research is particularly relevant for trail runners, especially those tackling endurance races like ultramarathons, where efficiency is paramount. Using a force-sensing treadmill set to different inclines, she tracked participants’ energy use and biomechanics with infrared cameras and metabolic analysis. Early findings suggest that those who generate more energy from their ankle plantar flexors—the calf muscles—are more efficient on steeper inclines.
“This aligns with previous work that has shown the ankle plantar flexors to be a more efficient muscle group due to the long Achilles tendon,” Rachel explains. “Energy can be stored and released by the tendon, reducing the energy required from muscle contractions. We were excited to provide an applicable translation for this previous work!”
A Dual Commitment to Research and Clinical Care
Rachel’s interest in running biomechanics isn’t just academic; it’s personal. “I dealt with many running-related injuries throughout high school, and I was very motivated to find ways to keep runners healthy.” Her journey led her to a dual career as a researcher and a physical therapist.
“For me, the draw to this field of research is strongly rooted in a love for running, and I want to help people enjoy it for as long as they possibly can!” she shares.
“My ultimate goal is to find a faculty position at a physical therapy school that allows me to blend these two career interests. But first, I look forward to becoming a mom this summer!” she says with excitement.
Her dedication to research and clinical practice stems from a love of running and a desire to answer the lingering questions that runners ask daily. “Working with runners as a physical therapist, I love applying current research findings to help my patients return to doing the sport they love. But there are still many questions we don’t have great evidence-based answers to. That’s what keeps me motivated.”
Research That Reaches Beyond the Lab
Rachel’s work has taken her far beyond Eugene. “I still have to pinch myself that I get to study running biomechanics in Tracktown, USA!” she says. Through the support of her lab director, Mike Hahn, she has presented her research at major national and international conferences.
“Two huge highlights were presenting in Fukuoka, Japan, at the International Biomechanics Symposium and in Houston, TX, for the American Physical Therapy Association Combined Sections Meeting (APTA CSM). I first presented at APTA CSM as a student in 2018, and presenting my PhD work in a podium session felt like a full-circle moment!”
