By Joe Pinkstone For Mailonline
Published: 11:24 GMT, 14 February 2019 | Updated: 15:28 GMT, 14 February 2019
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Splashing the cash on expensive equipment really can make a difference to amateurs starting to exercise.
Novices that have more sophisticated equipment were found to be four per cent more economical than those with more basic equipment, a study finds.
The benefit of the shoes tested - Nike's Zoom Vaporfly, which can cost up to £210 ($210) for a top end edition - is far less noticeable for veteran fitness fanatics however.
Scientists say the energy conservation is down to the carbon fibre plate in the sole of the shoe saving energy for the wearer when using their ankle joint, allowing them to better save energy and put it towards running faster.
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Novices that had more sophisticated equipment were found to be four per cent more economical than those with more basic equipment, a study finds. Energy conservation appears to be down to the carbon fibre plate in the sole of the shoe saving energy for the wearer (stock)
Researchers write in the study: 'The metabolic savings of the shoes appear to be due to: (1) superior energy storage in the midsole foam, (2) the clever lever effects of the carbon-fiber plate on the ankle joint mechanics, and (3) the stiffening effects of the plate on the joint.'
Nike's shoe improves running economy by four per cent on average, leading to speculation that it could eventually lead to a marathon being run in less than two hours.
But sadly for aspiring breakers of the two-hour glass ceiling, an improved economy of four per cent does not translate to a corresponding increase in race times.
Treadmill tests at the University of Colorado Boulder found those who run a mile in more than nine minutes showed far greater improvements than those who can cover the distance in less than nine minutes when using better trainers.
This translates to a casual runner, who normally completes a
