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Latest Research: Performance Gains, Shockwave Debate, Arch Support Science

In this month’s research roundup, Brodie breaks down three fascinating new papers covering running performance, Achilles rehab and plantar fasciitis management.

First, a large systematic review investigates what actually predicts better running performance in non-elite runners — from 5K athletes through to ultramarathoners. The findings reveal how the demands of performance dramatically change depending on race distance, highlighting the importance of physiology, training consistency, psychology and fueling strategies.

Next, Brodie unpacks a controversial new systematic review and meta-analysis on shockwave therapy for Achilles tendinopathy. Does shockwave actually improve outcomes, or has the treatment become overhyped within sports medicine? The findings may surprise clinicians and runners alike.

Finally, a new plantar fasciitis paper explores whether arch supports genuinely help reduce pain and — more importantly — why. Using imaging, biomechanics and computational modeling, the researchers attempted to uncover the mechanical effects of orthotics and how they may redistribute stress through the foot.

Papers discussed in this episode

1. Performance predictors in recreational runners

A systematic review examining the factors associated with performance in non-elite runners across distances ranging from 5K to ultramarathons.

Topics discussed:

•  VO₂ max and running economy 
•  Strength training and plyometrics 
•  Weekly mileage and consistency 
•  Emotional intelligence and pacing 
•  Fueling strategies in ultramarathons 
•  Environmental impacts on performance 

2. Shockwave therapy for Achilles tendinopathy

A systematic review and meta-analysis investigating whether shockwave therapy improves outcomes for midportion and insertional Achilles tendinopathy.

Topics discussed:

•  Radial vs focused shockwave 
•  Placebo effects and sham treatment 
•  Exercise vs shockwave outcomes 
•  Why exercise-based rehab still remains the gold standard 
•  Whether shockwave is worth the cost 

3. Arch supports and plantar fasciitis

A prospective study exploring the effects of arch-support insoles on pain, foot alignment and heel stress distribution in plantar fasciitis patients.

Topics discussed:

•  Orthotics and pain reduction 
•  Foot alignment changes on imaging 
•  Heel pressure redistribution 
•  Finite element biomechanical modeling 
•  Why orthotics may help symptoms without restoring tissue capacity 

Key takeaways

•  The predictors of running performance depend heavily on race distance. 
•  Strength training continues to show benefits for running economy and shorter-distance performance. 
•  Marathon success is strongly linked to consistency and uninterrupted training. 
•  Ultramarathons rely increasingly on pacing, fueling and race management rather than pure physiology. 
•  Current evidence for shockwave therapy in Achilles tendinopathy remains inconsistent and underwhelming. 
•  Exercise-based rehab continues to have the strongest evidence for tendon recovery. 
•  Arch supports may reduce plantar fascia stress and improve symptoms short-term, but should not replace progressive loading strategies.