Can you explain to me good running form?
Asked by
LDRSHIP (
1795
)
September 10th, 2013
Actually by asking this question I am more so trying to play devils advocate just to see what people say. I personally already have a fairly strong idea of this myself now that does not mean I am right. But don’t let this change your answer.
Just give me your honest belief on it.
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10 Answers
Response moderated (Off-Topic)
No back pedaling, push off with balls of feet, shoulders straight and square, face forward, eyes level with ground, relaxed hands and face.
No one can tell you the right way to run, just like no one can tell you how to live your life. There is one thing that you should strive for with your running and that is to run with an erect head up posture.
Good health!
I so agree with @gondwanalon. Once, many years ago when I was jogging regularly, I tried to emulate the style and gait of a runner ahead of me whom I admired and wound up taking a very nasty fall. After that, I just ran the way I ran and never fell again. I’m sure @Wine is correct about all that, but I never did any of those things and did just fine.
In full disclosure, I should also mention that 15 years of running destroyed my knees.
@Wine What exactly do you mean by back pedaling? Have video or pictures?
I agree and disagree with the philosophy of run however you feel good with.
Your running technique is totally dependent on your posture. The efficiency of your running technique is directly proportional to the quality of your posture. Having too long of a stride, or “over-striding,” is a major cause of both hamstring and knee injuries. Your knees should be bent at a 90º angle when you are warmed up and running at a good, medium pace. Take a proper breath & be flexible while running. Also, take a rest while running a long distance.
Response moderated (Spam)
Posture is important as mentioned by several smart jellies above.
Avoid overextension of the knees
Not everyone will agree but I recommend to land and push off from the forefoot, don’t land on the heels. If you land on your heels you pretty much guarantee grinding your knees into misery after a decade or so.
Coordinate your breathing, ideally with one more footfall exhaling than inhaling, e.g. 3 out, 2 in, or 2 steps out and 1 step in.
@dabbler You are likely right about not landing on the heals. It probably sends a shockwave up through the knees and hips. I have high arches in my feet that pretty much forces me to land and push-off with my forefoot. I tried to land on my heals but it just felt aukward. Anyway, I ran and raced long distances for 35 years (I’m 68 now) and I have no issues with my knees, feet or hips.
About breathing. I never thought about it. It happens naturally.
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