Running

Healthy Running

By August 23, 2016No Comments

RPT Blog: Healthy Running

Running is one of the best forms of exercise that one can get. But 65% of runners will get a running related injury in the next year. If logging long miles are important, it’s important to keep good running form when doing so. It’s a simple as head, shoulders, knees, and toes.

Head: Keep your eye level towards the horizon, or about 20-30 feet in front of you. This keeps your neck from cramping and opens the airways to allow more oxygen flow.

Shoulders: Your upper body needs to stay relaxed with arms at your side. Use as little energy as possible to conserve it for the long runs ahead. Don’t lead to far forward or backward.

Knees: Knees are where most of the running injuries occur in serious runners. As your foot strikes the ground, your knee should be slightly flexed so that it can bend naturally on impact. If your lower leg (below the knee) extends out in front of your body, your stride is too long.

Toes: Make sure your toes are not cramped in your shoes. Most runners lace their shoes too tight causing extra strain on your feet. Make sure you are landing properly in your stride, on the ball of the foot to ensure you don’t strain the bottom of the foot.

Proper form can not only decrease your time, but also help prevent injury when running.