RUNNINGTECHNIQUE
Let’s start on proper running form.
Although running gait is unique to our genetic makeup we can look at some general tips to make sure we run as efficiently as biomechanically possible:
Run tall, open chested with elbows at 90 degree angles. Try not to swing arms across the body(This will allow for more comfortable breathing).
Do not over stride, try to land with your foot underneath your body. Over striding places a lot of stress on the knees. (Running already forces the knees to handle 3 times the body’s weight and when running downhill it can be as high as 8x.)
Ideally runners should extend their trailing leg as they are pushing off to get effective forward propulsion. (This can be hampered by tight hamstrings muscles and glutes that fail to activate.)
The head should be as steady as possible and the body leaning forward about 5 degrees.
Runners are either forefoot or heal strikers naturally and this influences their ideal shoes.
RUNNINGSHOES
What running shoefits your style?
Generally runners fall into two groups when it comes to foot striking, either heal striking or forefoot striking.
Heel strikers are most commonly more flatfooted and their foot structure is more mobile.They can also typically appear knock-kneed when running and are more prone to over pronation. Therefore it will be more beneficial for them to wear straight-lasted shoes that provide firm support, also a firm heel cup will keep the foot from rolling inward.
Forefoot runners typically have high insteps and a rigid inflexible foot structure which means that they require softer contouring to allow for better shock absorption. They can look bowlegged when running and are natural supinator’s. Curve-lasted shoes will be a better fit, that allows the foot to roll inwards.
Common runner injuries include Pattelar tendonitis, Illiotibial band friction syndrome, Chondromalacia patella and Medial tibial stress syndrome.
