Fall is either here or on the way, depending on where you live. It’s my favorite time of the year. The weather is often pleasant, the light takes on a golden hue, and it’s just a great time to be outside doing things you enjoy. Since this is the Running Performance Series, let’s recognize that fall is a great time,…
As a runner, sometimes — or even most of the time — you just head out the door and start running. Simplicity is indeed beautiful. But when you are interested in improving your running performance, you generally think of workouts as being purpose-specific. There are many ways to look at running workouts, and many of those can be quite scientific.…
Now this is a fascinating topic! A very commonly asked question that I receive often from clients is “How long should my stride be?” As with many things, the answer often starts with “it depends.” However, for any running body at a given speed, there is an ideal length of stride that optimizes running economy and efficiency. That’s where we…
Welcome to the 3rd and final part of our “series within a series.” I’m of course referring to our focus on the components of video gait analysis within our summer Running Performance Series. In Part 1 we reviewed how to take good footage so that you can capture a reasonable representation of your running mechanics. In Part 2 we touched…
This is Part 2 of Video Gait Analysis and we are going to go over a few things to look for when examining your gait video. In Part 1 we reviewed the techniques and tips for getting good footage, and now we’ll take a look at a few of the components of running gait. It’s important to recognize that when…
Next up in our running performance series is Video Gait Analysis, and this is Part 1 of 3. We’re going to talk about how to record running video so that you have good data for evaluation. And potentially, using your findings to fine-tune your running mechanics can help you to simultaneously improve performance and reduce injury risk. This information is…
My take on choosing the right running shoe for your feet, body, and running goals has become decidedly less complex. As I’ve evolved over the past 40 years in my learning, observing, and thinking with regard to running shoe selection, I can boil it down to 3 key areas: fit, terrain, and purpose. That’s pretty much it. Each of those…
Hi there, friend! Have you ever heard the term “load management” and wondered exactly what that meant? Have you pondered how you can manage loads in both training and life to be more successful in performance and health? That’s what this relatively brief read will explain. Let’s dive in! Before we can get to managing load, we have to understand…
Hi Folks! As we launch into the Running Performance Series, I thought I’d start with helping you gain a perspective on just what type of runner you are. There are many ways to interpret that concept, and I’d like to start by assisting you in identifying the athletic mechanotype which characterizes your running style. This is a principle which I…
This is a quick post to let you know about a series I’ll be working on this summer. It’s all about Running Performance. Are you an avid runner who wants to dive into the nitty gritty science that can help you get faster, stay injury-free, and just get more enjoyment out of your running? Are you a team sport athlete…
