How can I take longer strides?

Question

Im only 5'2. When i first start out jogging my feet are about 30 inches apart. When i get tired they go to about 15 inches apart. How can i make my stride better? It seems to me that shorter people arent made for running, because when i jog with a friend thats 6'3 I have to jog twice as fast just to keep up with his normal pace.

Answer 1

to an extent it is harder to run if you are shorter, but if your strides are that much shorter you need to try running a more even pace. anyways, if you try raising your legs a little bit higher they will tend to go a little bit farther on their own. but like the other guy said, just practice. also if you move your arms quicker (don't flail them though) in a smooth motion, the momentum carries you forward more. however, it is hard to say if this will increase your stride length bigger, but it will certainly make you faster (which is what you wanted anyways!). but make sure to keep them low by "picking your pockets" as you bring them up. they shouldn't go much higher than the bottom of your chest.

Answer 2

Try interval training..add in some knee highs and long wind sprints.

Answer 3

Speed is the combination of stride length and how many strides you take within a given time.

Just because your stride is shorter does not necessarily mean you are running slower.

The only way to increase your stride length without hurting your speed is behind  you, not in front.

It takes strength to push off when you are driving forward.

Do not reach out in front to lengthen the stride, that will tire you and actually slow down your speed.

As you have noticed when you are tired your stride shortens, so conditioning and strength training will help you maintain your normal stride length.

Answer 4

the answer is within your question. to take longer strides you must take longer strides. when you get tierd its your natural response to take shorter strides. you must fight it and keep up the same stride the whole way. keep doing this untill it becomes easy. just because your freind is taller doesnt nessesarly mean he is faster for that reason. he might just be more athletic then you. good luck