One of the easiest ways to work out is to go on a run. There is no need for any special equipment; all you need is a good pair of running shoes and good weather. It is a great way to get a cardio workout while clearing your mind of stressful thoughts.
Running is also second nature, especially as it’s been something you’ve been innately doing since you were young. However, maximising its benefits entails having the right form. Whether you are an aspiring athlete who runs as a part of their training regimen, or if you just want to get a good workout in, you have to make sure you do it right. It is crucial that you have the correct posture and form while you run, even if you only choose to do it for leisure. The following article will shed some light as to why this is so.
Tips to Ensure You Have the Proper Posture as You Run
Keeping the proper posture as you run will save you from potential injuries and will help keep you fit and reaching optimal health. Here are a few tips to help you ensure that you have the proper running posture.
1 – Don’t Lean Backward
Refrain from putting your weight backward. Keep your neck and shoulders relaxed while you gently swing your arms back and forth to keep your balance. Make sure to keep your back straight as you run. Let your trunk lean a little forward as you run. This will allow the body to stride more efficiently when running.
2 – Keep Your Neck and Back Aligned
Prevent neck pain while you run by avoiding looking down. You may also risk bumping into things and people if you keep your eyes on the ground. Align your back and neck while keeping your eyes ahead.
3 – Find a Running Style That Comes Natural to You
You may choose to swing your arms back and forth as you run. However, it is wise to find a comfortable way to run without exerting extra effort with your movements. Clenching your fists and constantly adjusting your body’s position may mean that you are spending too much effort on these small mannerisms and exhausting your energy more quickly.
4 – Run Using Your Feet and Cadence Appropriately
Make sure that your running technique uses your feet and knees to your advantage. Make sure that you land on the balls of your feet with your knees slightly bent and try and maintain your steps per minute at 180. This will ensure that your legs will be able to properly cushion your weight with each stride and be a more efficient form of running.
Conclusion
These tips should ensure a more comfortable run next time you’re out. Keep in mind that pain is not normal when running. If you do feel pain, that is the body’s way of warning you that something is wrong. Look at fine-tuning your technique with some of the above adjustments and improve your form.
However, if you’ve been experiencing pain for a prolonged period of time and want to get to the root cause of what is going on with your body, Invigor Health can help you. We aim to help you get to the bottom of the pain you are experiencing and help you get rid of it for good. If you are in need of affordable physiotherapy plans, give us a call today!
