Proper Running Technique

We are not unaware of the vast array of benefits that we get from running. Apart from helping us win our battle of bulge, running also boosts our stamina and develops the immune system of our body. It also acts as a stress buster for many of us. Now that we are aware of the paybacks that we get out of this cardiovascular exercise; it would be unfair if we do not talk about the injuries that can happen due to incorrect running technique. That’s true! If we run in an incorrect posture for a long time, we can develop injuries and bone deformities. Moreover, running in an incompatible manner may not prove to be effective in your struggle to lose weight. Hence, it is indispensable to learn the appropriate running technique and follow it religiously to keep yourself free from painful and costly injuries. Scan this article and analyze the ways in which your posture, your pace and even your shoes can affect your body and your capacity to run better as well as longer.

How To Run Right

To begin with, check the posture of your head. A lot of us have a tendency to look downwards while running. However, this must be avoided and the head should be held straight with your eyes focused to a point on the ground that is 10-20 feet ahead of you. If you keep your head bend low, then you might develop a neck strain and/or contractions of the back. Keep these injuries at bay by focusing your head on the horizon.
Next are the shoulders. A sprinter needs to position his shoulders in the right way lest he might get exhausted soon and may also develop neck injuries. Shoulders that swing back and forth with each stride or rounded shoulders do not form the right posture. To avoid this, you ought to square your shoulders and keep them parallel to the ground.
Arms support forward motion by giving the balancing power for proper foot landing. While running, make sure that your arms swing in an easy to and fro motion forming a slender figure-eight. Keep them stress-free and not unnecessarily rigid.
You elbows should be bent so that you form an L-shape with your arms and keep your forearms parallel to the ground.
No need not clench your fists tightly and apply extra pressure on your knuckles and palms. Just make a loose fist the way you want and continue jogging.
Hold your head straight and keep the torso erect. This will help your lungs breathe in full oxygen in a rhythm and you will be able to run further. A straight upper body and back keep the hips parallel to the ground which is the ideal posture for runners. Since the hips are the center of gravity of our lower body, their incorrect posture will exhaust the runner in no time.
While running, do not lift your knees too high. If you lift your knees too high, then you may encounter ankle or knee injuries.
When you strike the ground with your foot, ensure that your ankles are activated so that you get the ‘jump’ in the push-off.

Right running techniques confirm surefootedness. They also aid in avoiding sprains, strains and other sports injuries that are very common among sportspersons. Moreover, a proper running form will push your fatigue and you can run faster and further.

How to Cite

Related Articles

See also

More in 'Health & Fitness'