mohsrunning

Proper running posture is important to avoid injuries. Proper running posture starts with your head. Keep your eyes looking ahead and not down at your feet. Keeping your head level will also keep your back straight. Your shoulders should be at a natural low position and feel loose. As you run longer, your shoulders can creep upwards and begin to tighten. Shake out your shoulders to release any tension. Your arms should swing front to back and not across your body. Your fists should not be clinched; imagine you are carrying an egg in each hand.

The lower body also plays an important part in proper running posture. Your torso should be straight and tall. Imagine that you have a string attached to the top of your head and its pulling you up. Keeping your shoulders, arms and head in good posture will also help keep your torso in proper posture as well. Keeping your back and torso straight will also allow your hips to fall naturally in line. When you begin to get tired, your torso and back will hunch over and your hips will start tilting forward.

Your stride is also key in keeping proper posture. If you are a sprinter you will lift your knees higher than a long distance runner. A long distance runner should keep their knees low and have a short and quick stride. Your ankles and feet are also key in your posture. Your foot should hit the ground lightly and land between your heel and your midfoot. Then roll forward off the toes to create maximum force. You should be able to feel your calf muscles push you forward. Your feet should not hit the ground hard or with a slapping sound. Your feet should hit the ground lightly and spring forward.