Steep downhill runs impact power output for days — image accompanying Marathon Handbook's report. Image accompanying Marathon Handbook’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Marathon Handbook reports downhill running can reduce muscle power even after soreness subsides. Eight men experienced power loss two days after a steep downhill run. The loss was not evenly distributed across thigh muscles.
A controlled experiment involved eight men running downhill for 60 minutes. Seven men walked level for 30 minutes as a control. Power output reduction persisted two days later. Steep downhill running should be introduced progressively. Read more everyday miles coverage.
For trail runners and those preparing for hilly races, repeated exposure can build resilience. Start with shorter descents, maintain good mechanics, and allow recovery. The dose of downhill running matters. Related: Masters Trail Runners: Best Training Mix Revealed.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
Reader questions
Questions about this report
What should runners know about Steep downhill runs impact power output for days?
Marathon Handbook reports downhill running can reduce muscle power even after soreness subsides. Marathon Handbook reports downhill running can reduce muscle power even after soreness subsides. Eight men experienced power loss two days after a steep downhill run. The loss was not evenly distributed across thigh muscles.
When did Runner World publish this everyday miles brief?
Runner World published this brief on September 5, 2026. The underlying Marathon Handbook report was dated September 3, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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