Ready to take your running to the next level? Understanding what to expect when changing your run form is half the battle.
Below, I discuss what you can expect when changing your run form.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that improving your run form takes time and requires time and practice.
According to a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, developing a new habit takes an average of 66 days, and running form is no exception.
Getting Started:
Most often, runners feel awkward, uncoordinated, or even fatigued. Changing your run form is like learning any new skill.
New movement patterns are inefficient and uncoordinated. It’s the same if you’re learning any new task or skill. Take the piano, for example. Initially, finding keys and hand placement will take a lot of work. However, with practice, your movements become more natural and fluid.
With your run form (or any new task or skill) the early days can be a struggle. ll.
Transitioning to Midfoot Strike:
While a seemingly simple change, running midfoot can change how your body moves and interacts with the ground.
While the end result is more efficient running with a softer impact, improving your run form takes time.
Learning new running form happens with every stride. Expect to feel uncoordinated, awkward, and more tired. But, just like the piano, with continued practice, the feelings lessen, and the new form becomes sustainable.
Mindset Shift for Run Form:
Do you know those challenging runs or races? Your mind and legs are in a battle to keep moving forward? Rather than focusing on the finish line or “wanting to be done,” run through a checklist to keep your mind and body connected.
- What is my footstrike?
- Am I relaxed?
- Fight against shuffle
- Keep good posture
Prioritizing run form across distances and paces can make runs more enjoyable. You can also reduce your risk of injury and get to the finish line faster — which is always nice. 🙂
Are you ready to take the next step in improving your running form? Check out the Midfoot Project!
The Midfoot Project is a 5-week run form bootcamp designed for runners who want to improve their form and reduce the risk of injury.
