Whether you’re pounding the pavement or hitting the gym’s track, there’s one way to run that is your best bet.
Have you ever taken note of the way in which you run? Do your feet slap the cement first with the heel and then toe or vice versa?
You may not know, but you will want to after reading this factual study aboutrunning form.
An overwhelming majority of runners and athletes alike hit the ground with their heels first.
From 94 percent at the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon to 90 percent at the New Hampshire marathon, it goes without saying that heel-to-toe form is favored above all.
But, is it the best bet for the sake of your feet’s health in the long run?
According to the study at the University of Jyvaskyla, hitting the ground heels-first leaves knees stressed and at risk for conditions like patellofemoral stress syndrome.
Those who strike the pavement with the ball of their feet are stressing the ankles and Achilles, rising the risk of Achilles’ tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, and feet stress fractures.
Therefore, if your knees are bad, stick to toes first. If your ankles are weak, lead with the heels. Although easier said than done to switch your running form, it could prevent greater pain down the road.