15 Ways To Achieve A Proper Running Form

15 Ways To Achieve A Proper Running Form
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Would you like to know what is a proper running form? Using the right technique will help you avoid injury and run more efficiently. See the graphic below to get a snapshot of 15 ways to improve your running form

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Summary: 15 Ways to Achieve A Proper Running Form

1. Proper Posture

Run tall by holding your spine straight. Keep your chest upright to increase lung capacity and keep proper posture.

2. Poised Head

Look forward as you run to keep your neck from tilting forward or back.

3. Deep Breathing

Breathe deep and engage your lungs. Move your body with your breath to create a steady pace.

4. Gentle Arm Swing

Relax and pull your shoulders back. For long distances, let your arms naturally swing back and forth with your body. For short distances with faster speeds, pump your arms to propel yourself forward.

5. Hip Placement

Keep your hips, core, and head aligned as you lean slightly forward. Engage your core tightly to maintain stability and proper posture.

6. Foot Strike

Strike midfoot against the ground just ahead of your hips and let momentum carry you forward.

7. Steady Stride

Stride length should be long enough for your midfoot to strike the ground underneath your knee and slightly ahead of your hips.

8. Body Coordination

Coordinate your arm swing with your leg movement by swinging the opposite arms and legs in sync.

9. Elbow Bend

Bend your elbows at 90 degrees. Gently pump your arms at your side with relaxed muscles.

10. Lean

Lean slightly forward as you run to maintain alignment and momentum.

11. Relaxed Hands

Relax and cup your hands like you are gently holding an egg. Keep your wrists straight and loose as you run.

12. Flexibility

Keep your body flexible and calm with your movement to avoid potential injury.

13. Cadence

Keep a steady cadence between 170-180 bpm for optimal foot strike and postural form.

14. Mental Focus

Keep your mind focused on the way your body moves to keep proper alignment and optimum cadence.

15. Body Sensing

Sense the way your body moves to make needed adjustments. Stay light and use your momentum to move you forward.

Bethany Widdicombe

Bethany Widdicombe

Bethany Widdicombe is a runner at heart, a researcher by nature, and a writer by passion. Having traveled across the world, she continues to be an advocate for awareness and knowledge that empowers people to a better life. You can now find her running out on the trail, or nestled away writing her next article.

Portland, OR