Question For The Runners/Joggers

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CountryMom03
CountryMom03 Posts: 258 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I am doing the C25K. I started it awhile back ago when I first started my journey but quickly injured myself. Took about a month off and have started back at it. Im doing really well and seeing progress but my question is this...I know running shoes can help tremendously on impact, support, etc But I seem to have another problem that Im not sure what to do about.

I didnt realize it was this bad until I really started watching myself walk and found that I do it when I jog and run also. When walking, jogging or running my feet are shaped like this...."V" Just pretend each side of the V is one of my foots lol. And I run and walk like that naturally. I have even noticed it with reg workouts where you have to stand with your feet apart but straight? Mine arent and if I do straighten them up, it feels very uncomfortable like somethings out of whack. Same with jogging and running, if I force my feet to try and keep them aligned right, it feels so weird that Im scared Im going to end up injuring myself just by trying to force a un-natural stance and gait. What should I do?

I do plan on going to my doctor about this sometime soon but I was just wondering if anyone had any experience with this and has any ideas I can do in the meantime. Is it ok to just let it flow naturally like its used to? Or do I need to try and re-train them?

Replies

  • Bufite
    Bufite Posts: 55 Member
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    not an expert, but if it doesn't hurt, and your injury wasn't caused by your odd feet, then I would leave well alone. Everyone is built differently. Having the right shoes, and not doing too much too soon is really important. Good luck!
  • CarsonRuns
    CarsonRuns Posts: 3,039 Member
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    Don't try to change your gait. Go to a specialty running store and have they analyze the way you run. Take their suggestions for shoes. Start there.
  • cPT_Helice
    cPT_Helice Posts: 403
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    Don't try to change your gait. Go to a specialty running store and have they analyze the way you run. Take their suggestions for shoes. Start there.

    ^^this^^
  • SweatpantsRebellion
    SweatpantsRebellion Posts: 754 Member
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    I would maybe find a reputable chiropractor to take a look at it.
  • CountryMom03
    CountryMom03 Posts: 258 Member
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    Thanks for the advice everyone!:) I will just leave well enough alone until I can see what a doctor says and also get to a athletic running store *sucks being way out in the boonies sometimes lol*.
  • Im_NotPerfect
    Im_NotPerfect Posts: 2,181 Member
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    I know a TON of people who walk like that. I think it IS just natural for a lot of people. Just go with it. If it doesn't hurt, why mess with it?
  • shelbynicole32
    shelbynicole32 Posts: 179 Member
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    I am on W4D2 and am stuck because I just bought new shoes and they hurt my ankles so now I am a step back. Getting in the right shoes does make all the difference... Now its just finding the right pair!
  • cassilink
    cassilink Posts: 7 Member
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    It seems like you have foot pronation. This usually means that your feet are turning inwards to compensate for something else that is wrong or hurting in your foot or leg. There are plenty of foot/ankle strengthening exercises that you can do (just google it) and I would also recommend going to a running store and having them help you find a pair of shoes. They will have you run on a treadmill and then give you some suggestions from there. If this is causing a lot of pain and discomfort, I would definitely see a foot specialist. Just know that many of us runners have the same issues, all you have to do is get educated about it and seek help when you need it! Don't stop running!
  • dsjohndrow
    dsjohndrow Posts: 1,821 Member
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    Injury that is not due to an accident like a fall, is almost ALWAYS because of weakness in the supporting muscles. Here is what I recommend.

    - Do basic strength training for your legs for 30 days before you run again. Strength = Control = Safe Running
    - You can walk the distance you want to run during this time. IE" 5K. Do it 4 or 5 times a weeks. It will take about an hour.
    - Get to a running store and have them do an analysis. Don't just buy someone's favorite brand from an MFP post! That will help and get the proper shoe for your geometry. ( If you still have pain with good shoes, get to a podiatrist - you may need an insert. I did.)
    - Then do your C25K.

    Good luck.
  • jonnyb62
    jonnyb62 Posts: 426
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    I don't stand like that, but I run/walk like it. In fact, as my shoes wear out you can actually see the "v" if you set them side by side. You know I have been putting in some serious miles this summer, and I have not had any issues. I also went to the local running store to have my stride analyzed so I could buy the correct shoes. I asked the guy about it and he said that is the foot "strike," has nothing to do with stride/running style, and 99% of the time does not cause problems. It does, however, wear your shoes out faster. :(
  • LisaJ2904
    LisaJ2904 Posts: 157 Member
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    Don't try to change your gait. Go to a specialty running store and have they analyze the way you run. Take their suggestions for shoes. Start there.

    ^ Defo this, prob the single best thing you can do x
  • dsjohndrow
    dsjohndrow Posts: 1,821 Member
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    Don't try to change your gait. Go to a specialty running store and have they analyze the way you run. Take their suggestions for shoes. Start there.

    ^^^ This

    At the very least, try this link. Much better to hit the store with a pair of worn in sneakers. From the wear and what they see as you run, you'll get better choices.

    http://www.runnersworld.com/shoeadvisor
  • CountryMom03
    CountryMom03 Posts: 258 Member
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    wow awesome ideas and tips!! Thanks everyone!:) Nice to know that it is normal and that I dont necessarily have to change it, just get into some good running shoes and do some strength exercises with my feet:)
  • tadpole242
    tadpole242 Posts: 507 Member
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    I would maybe find a reputable chiropractor to take a look at it.
    Isn’t that an oxymoron?
    Reputable meaning respectable – honourable
    Chiropractor meaning quackery, or pseudoscience
  • CarsonRuns
    CarsonRuns Posts: 3,039 Member
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    I would maybe find a reputable chiropractor to take a look at it.
    Isn’t that an oxymoron?
    Reputable meaning respectable – honourable
    Chiropractor meaning quackery, or pseudoscience

    The guy I go to is reputable. You're just being cynical.

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