Advised to heel strike in wk2?

[Holsmols]

HealthUnlocked i am loving this podcast so far except for being very confused in week 2 when Laura advises to ‘make sure your heel is hitting the ground first’ - I’m pretty sure that is the opposite of all the advice I’ve ever read about how to run safely? Heel striking isn’t good for your joints and even the NHS website advises to avoid heel striking and to aim to land on the middle or balls of your feet? Please explain (or correct) as I’m sure this must be an error?

[thegirlfrommarz Graduate]

I had a “I’m sorry, what?” moment when I heard that too. It’s not just Laura; Sarah Millican says it too, so I assume all the coaches on the app do. I just ignored it, but it is weird that it hasn’t been cut out and replaced on the audio.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

In the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... I have pointed out this anomaly. I was recently advised that on the app, Laura does not give this advice, although she does on the podcasts.

Thanks for highlighting it again, as I would hate to have someone causing themselves injury by desperately trying to heelstrike. You are correct in suggesting that it is now considered the least desirable way for the foot to contact the ground, causing more impact stresses to the legs than mid or fire foot strike.

To avoid it, do not overstride, keep footfall under your body not out in front.