Is passive metatarsophalangeal joint stiffness related to leg stiffness, vertical stiffness and running economy during sub-maximal running?

•MPJ passive stiffness in sitting position is highly correlated to leg stiffness in running.•MPJ passive stiffness in sitting position is moderately correlate to vertical stiffness in running.•MPJ passive stiffness in either sitting and standing position is not correlated to running efficiency.