Effects of lower extremity neuromuscular and mechanical characteristics on running economy and sports performance of long-distance runners under different relative paces

This study is strictly exploratory and hypothesis-generating. RE is a core indicator potentially associated with long-distance running performance. RSI, specific hip and knee PTR at 180°/s angular velocity, knee joint stiffness and knee joint neuromuscular activation characteristics (VM RMS, knee joint CAR) show potential correlational associations with RE. The associations between these indicators and RE are pace-dependent and joint-specific, which can provide preliminary scientific reference for generating hypotheses about long-distance running training.