what's the best way to place my foot when step... - Couch to 5K

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what's the best way to place my foot when stepping off a high kerb?

bethbrit profile image
9 Replies

There is one pavement that has a higher kerb to step down on my run. I am wondering how it's best to land my foot when running? Today I put my heel down first and was rewarded with a jarring up my ankle. I am worried I am going to injure myself on this kerb. I can't really avoid it as it's on my route.

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bethbrit profile image
bethbrit
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9 Replies
Oldgirl profile image
OldgirlGraduate

I'm not 100% sure but my instincts would be to land more on the ball of my foot with a soft knee to cushion the jolt. Curbs can be annoying as they do vary in height, I wear specs normally but take them off for running and have been known to mis-judge the height on many occassion.

bethbrit profile image
bethbrit in reply to Oldgirl

Many thanks for the advice - I think that makes sense. I shall try to make sure to try to land on the ball of my foot as you suggest.

Landesman profile image
LandesmanGraduate

Yes, I agree 100%. I wouldn't land on my heel from any height. Ball of the foot and with the knee slightly bent would be the way for me.

bethbrit profile image
bethbrit in reply to Landesman

Thanks for the reply and advice. I shall also try to be sure to bend my knee as well. I think I need to watch out for the kerb coming up so I can adjust my stride.

greenlegs profile image
greenlegsGraduate

I'm sure I remember something about training for long distance runners including jumping from heights, to land softly.

I do slow down (even more than my usual slow) to go up/down kerbs, unless they're little ones, and do the bend knees, ball of foot thing too.

bethbrit profile image
bethbrit in reply to greenlegs

Thanks for the advice greenlegs- much appreciated.

ps are your legs really green?

greenlegs profile image
greenlegsGraduate in reply to bethbrit

Oh, yes! They go really well with my green fingers. I love gardening. :)

I hope this makes sense, but if the curb is very high I go off the side of the curb, rather than forward and land bending knee on ball of foot.

bethbrit profile image
bethbrit in reply to

That sounds like great advice - thanks

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