Friday, August 6, 2010

Check Your Form

Many times we can catch ourselves doing something that may potentially cause an injury. By becoming aware of our mistakes in form and paying attention to soreness or irritation while running or performing any other exercise, we can correct a potential problem before it starts.

If you start to sense soreness in the knees or ankles, think about what you are doing that could be the problem. Humans have been running throughout history so you shouldn’t just give up. The human body may be made to run, but the environment has changed. We may no longer be running in bare feet across the soft ground of the plains, but we can still keep ourselves in motion.

As we have mentioned, proper footwear is key. Make sure to review past information at SD PERSONAL TRAINER to make sure you are wearing a shoe that is appropriate for your foot shape and running style. Try using an orthodic insole.

Also, re-education yourself on proper form and start the healing process. There are several rule that will help you not to aggravate your potential problem.

1. Don’t land on your heels.
2. Don’t land ahead of your center of mass.
3. Don’t push off with your ankle.
4. Don’t straighten your knees.

Try taking your knees and make sure to always stretch your thighs before a run. Use athletic tape or an athletic bandage to wrap the knees. Also, by keeping your thighs strong by performing strengthening exercises, you will be more prepared for your run. Studies have shown that runners who cross train with strengthening exercise regularly had less instance of osteoporosis of the knee.

If you don’t feel a quick improvement, make sure to consult your physician and fitness professional. You won’t get very far without healthy knees and ankles!

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