Faster 5K Step 2: Stride Right

I have been running for 20 years and it wasn't until the last year or two that I've been aware of the emphasis on good running form. While I don't think I'll ever run barefoot, I do thank the barefoot movement (Born to Run is a must read) for making our running form as important as the miles we log. Perhaps more important than the miles we log. Poor stride will sideline you with injuries and keep you from running at all.

I took a running stride clinic last year and highly recommend it for all runners. Often local running stores will host these for free or for a low cost (ideally you want video analysis of your stride). Other options are to check out videos online. Even after that clinic I still check out videos for refreshers: just search "running technique" in You Tube and you could watch for days. I don't run in Newtons but I sure like their video about running technique. Also, The Gait Guys are a good resources and so is Crossfit Endurance for running drills. 

Essentially what you are learning or relearning is how to run the way your body is designed to run, which is crucial to prevent injury and become more efficient (efficient again, yes, there is a theme!). 

In a nutshell here are the main considerations when you run.

• Land on your midfoot, not your heels or your toes (running on toes causes shinsplints). 
• Don’t leave your foot on the ground for long. Try to pick it up as soon as it lands. 
• Lean into the forward motion; use momentum to carry you forward
• Keep your arms parallel to your body, don’t let them swing across.

If you try to think about ALL of this while you run it might completely ruin your experience. So pick one thing to focus on the next time you run. And, if you're running with a stroller, watch this video to help you stay true to good form while pushing the pram. 

Make small improvements and adjustments over time and your form will become giselle-like and your finish times faster.

Tomorrow for Step 3 we'll talk about actual run training!