How Do I work On My Stride?

JBohlmeyer
JBohlmeyer Posts: 1
in Fitness and Exercise
Hello! First post on the boards, so be gentle!

I've been running consistently for about 6 months now and I'm getting to where I run 3 or 4 miles at a time. I ran with a friend the other day, and she told me that it looks like I'm wasting a lot of energy running "up" instead of "out" and that I need to work on my stride.

I'm 5'10" and I don't have any weird things with my walking stride, but I have realized that my running stride is pretty short. Does anyone have any suggestions of things I can do to improve my stride length? I was kind of thinking about it while running today, but I just feel awkward trying to force myself into bigger steps.

Replies

  • digitalalchemy
    digitalalchemy Posts: 56 Member
    Have you looked into Pose running? It is supposed to be one of the most efficient ways to run. You use momentum to drive you forward and you never want your foot to land in front of the body (it slows the body down). You strike mid-foot instead of heel to reduce contact with the ground. You use your quads to lift your legs instead of your hip flexors because the quads are a much more efficient and larger muscle. Because of this, your stride is pretty short, but you can go pretty fast. Plus, it is supposed to keep you from injuring yourself.

    Here is a good synopsis:
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7zEruVUwr4&feature=related
  • ster81
    ster81 Posts: 249
    Try switching your cadence to about 180bpm. This will help run more efficient by shortening your stride and help you land midfoot. You can download MP3s that you can use with your ipod or any mp3 player and just match the beat with your foot strike.

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