Track - walking/running

VastBreak
VastBreak Posts: 322 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Never heard of this before so I would like to know if there is any validity to this claim :

While I was walking and running last night there was another person there jogging. After a few laps she switched directions. I was joking with her when we passed and asked if it was quicker going the opposite direction. She commented that it is a good idea to switch and go both directions to keep your gait balanced and hips aligned.

At first I thought this was humorous and now after thinking about it I wonder if there is any truth to this!

Replies

  • CarsonRuns
    CarsonRuns Posts: 3,039 Member
    If you are running fast enough that you create lateral forces when you round the turns, then yes, it is a good idea to switch directions from time to time. Just throwing out a guestimate, I'd say you would need to be running 7:30 mile pace or faster before this really becomes an issue.
  • VastBreak
    VastBreak Posts: 322 Member
    Wow, that is a pretty quick mile!

    So just your basic fast paced walk or a beginner with c25k would not matter much!

    What about just switching certain days, walking one direction on Monday and the opposite direction on Wednesday? Would this accomplish the same balance? Or is it a balance required on every run?
  • CarsonRuns
    CarsonRuns Posts: 3,039 Member
    Wow, that is a pretty quick mile!

    So just your basic fast paced walk or a beginner with c25k would not matter much!

    What about just switching certain days, walking one direction on Monday and the opposite direction on Wednesday? Would this accomplish the same balance? Or is it a balance required on every run?

    Fast paced walk or slow run, I don't think it's going to much matter. Alternating days probably isn't a bad idea just to gain an fresh perspective on the world. :)
  • Cooriander
    Cooriander Posts: 2,848 Member
    When ran track in college I got injured because I was pigheaded enough, and ran in the same direction on the track, and got injured. Still remember the pain, ugh. I had to stop running for months, until I was healed.
  • Timshel_
    Timshel_ Posts: 22,834 Member
    What other's have mentioned above is a factor, but I also think it helps to break any routine your head might be getting used to. Alwasy good to mix it up...well, unless the track is really busy and you are dodging people like crazy.

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