| The main parts of the machine are: a rectangular base with a square platform running on rails at one end with a pivoting pole at the other. A pneumatic system supplies the force which resists movement of the pole and the platform towards each other. The athlete stands on the platform facing away from the pole but connected to it by a hip harness. The athlete runs by first leaning forward against the harness, and then raising and striking the platform with alternating feet. This pulls the pole forward, and at the same time, pushes the platform backward against pneumatic pressure. |
This motion sets the platform oscillating backwards and forwards in rhythm with the foot-strike. It is this “push-pull” action which allows runners to execute a normal running motion while staying in relatively the same space.
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