Running is a ballistic mode of locomotion with alternating phases of which two phases?

• A. Support phase and flight phase
• B. Propulsion and braking
• C. Swing phase and stance
• D. Pause and go

Answer: (A)

Running alternates between a period when the body is in contact with the ground, supporting weight and pushing off, and a period when both feet are off the ground in the air. The contact portion is the support phase, during which propulsion and braking forces act to move you forward, while the flight portion is the flight phase, where there is no ground contact and motion is governed by gravity. This flight phase is what makes running a ballistic mode of locomotion. The other descriptions describe forces during contact or limb movement, not the two whole phases of locomotion in running.