Running:

Talent vs. Technique!

Running: Talent vs. Technique

Do you feel like some people are born to run? That they can do no training what so ever and still run 10kms without breaking a sweat? This month we look into the forever-ongoing debate of talent vs. technique when it comes to running, giving advice on some technical insights that will help you catch up to even the most talented of runners.

Tip 1 – Short stride success
The common belief that the longer your stride the quicker you run is in actual fact false. Short, light steps where the feet don’t extend to far in front of the body is the best way to go about it. When it comes to the time to increase your speed, look to drive your back leg with your hips rather than reaching forward with the foot to achieve optimal speed.

Tip 2 – Always go forwards
Don’t laugh here, we understand that the entire function of running is moving forward but you’d be surprised how much sideways movement there is in your running style, especially with the arms. Try keeping your arms at a 90^o angle whilst you’re in a stride. At the same time it is important to do what is comfortable for you, as long as the motion is not side-to-side.

Tip 3 – Running Tall is Running Right
Most runners end up over doing it when trying to get that perfect ‘forward running lean’ that they see from the Olympic athletes on TV. This isn’t wrong, as a slight forward lean is part of good form; the problem lies in the fact that this lean should come from the ankles, not the waist. Keeping your back straight and your head up whilst running will give you the perfect form, and the best part about this is that the forward lean will then come naturally from your ankles.