In May 2019 researchers from the USA published the results of their study to assess knee contact forces during skipping and running at the same speed. It is known that there are many health benefits of running based exercises but the rate of injury is high which then either reduces or stops an individual from exercising. However, skipping has shorter steps, reduced vertical ground reaction forces, and lower knee extensor torques, compared to running which may mean that skipping has lower tibio-femoral and patello-femoral joint contact forces. A total of 20 young healthy trained individuals skipped and ran on a motorised treadmill during which joint contact forces were evaluated. Results showed that compared to running, skipping had lower tibio-femoral and patello-femoral joint contact forces and a 30% higher aerobic benefit. The lower joint loads in skipping were directly associated with its shorter steps, and the increased aerobic benefit due to its larger vertical displacement through the stride.
McDonnell J et al. Skipping has lower knee joint contact forces and higher metabolic cost compared to running. Gait Posture. 2019 May;70:414-419.