Running advice

[Stadler]

In run 1 week 6 advice is given to land lightly on your heel. Everything else I’ve read says land on your mid foot. Is the advice here wrong?

[TigerBiscuit Graduate]

Hi Stadler, yes, I heard that too, but in the forum here we are advised to land on either mid foot or toes - not the heel. I’m sure one of the experts will confirm. Good luck with your running.

[Jell6 Graduate]

Short answer, avoid heel striking, I don't know why they haven't changed that.

Check out FAQ in the pinned posts for more information from IannodaTruffe .

He has the answers to most questions 😊

[Stadler Graduate]

Thanks both. That’s a relief. I’m an awful runner but am trying to concentrate on landing mid foot.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to Stadler]

Don't try too hard. While midfoot strike is considered optimal, it is the natural way for many and trying to force an unnatural footstrike can cause further issues. Just be aware that heelstriking creates more impact stresses to the joints than any other.

Keep footfall as light as possible.

[Stadler Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks....my gait is rubbish but i'm concentrating on the mid foot strike...it means i'm running lighter and it does feel better.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5... and includes advice on footstrike. We have repeatedly asked Public Health England to remove the advice on heelstriking, which, as you say goes counter to the general advice across the running world.

Enjoy your journey.

[Oldgirlruns Graduate]

I agree, I was a bit surprised to hear that from Michael on this run - I gave it a stiff ignoring!

[Stadler Graduate in reply to Oldgirlruns]

I think i said WTF or words to that effect!! Joys of running on your own out the way!!!

[Oldgirlruns Graduate in reply to Stadler]

🤣