Over the past few weeks we have been writing all about running form. There is a lot to consider and after the recent blog posts it should become clear that running is a pretty complex movement.

There are a lot of variables to consider from posture, to heel strike, to cadence, it can all be a bit overwhelming to integrate.

So how can you start to implement changes without getting overwhelmed?

We know that maintaining good running form is essential for preventing injuries and improving performance. But like anything it takes time and conscious effort. Here are some tips you can use to help maintain good form during runs:

Tips On Maintaining Good Running Form

  1. Make a list of priorities: Whether you have had a formal running gait analysis or are doing a self analysis its important to identify a list of things to work on. You should try to prioritize the most important variables first. For instance you may want to prioritize improving the position of your foot strike and overall posture prior to working on cadence.

  2. Pick one variable to work on at a time: Focus entirely on that variable until you feel like you have made appreciable changes. By focusing on variable at a time you can avoid becoming overwhelmed and focus all your attention on reinforcing one thing.

  3. Check in: Check in with your body periodically during your run and make any necessary adjustments to your form. This can help you maintain good form throughout your run. An easy way to do this is to set predictable times to check in with your form. If you listen to music do a mental check at the start of every new song. If you track your run do a mental check every 1/2 mile. Build in predictable times during your run where you consciously check in with your form. This will allow for more consistency, reinforcement, and carryover throughout the run.

  4. Film yourself: A great way to notice change is by taking short clips of your running form. That way you can compare and analyze your progress over time. You can use the video to compare your form to what ideal form looks like and assess what areas still need work.

  5. Practice: Remember, maintaining good running form takes practice. No one gets good at anything without a lot of practice. Change will happen over time with consistent effort. Stay focused on the long term changes and don’t get too bogged down with the day to day. Eventually you will optimize your form and you will have a whole new normal.

Have Any Questions? Let Us Know!