Runners: I run/jog heavy footed! How can i change it so that i can improve and get faster?

Question

also does running flat footed also mean that im a heavy footed runner???

i think i may be confused.... how can i change the way i run and what is the correct way to run???

Answer 1

your heels should never touch the floor, stay on the balls and toes of your feet.

also your shoes may be too flat, you need a slight heel to be able to hit maximum pace.

remember your arms should help push you forward so make your arms powerful.

hope to see you in london 2012, hehe

Answer 2

If you are running flat footed or feel heavy while running it is because you don't have enough muscle support force/strength causing you to collapse at the ankle/knee at ground contact. Try isometric holds by getting in a leg press machine, lift the weight with both legs but hold with one leg, on ball of foot and knee slightly bent. Hold as much weight as possible for 10-20 seconds. Do 3-6 holds/reps. The increased strength will provide the support so you can bounce down the track rather than feel like you are running through wet cement.  

Answer 3

Every body is different.  The best runners have one thing in common: If you were to video tape a good runner and there was a fence in the background - say a chain link fence where the bar on the fence was level - you would see that his hips stay level with the bar - no up and down movement  his motion is straight forward.  The foot strike of most good runners is heel to toe in a fluid motion.  Check your shoes and see how they are wearing out - this will give you a clue as to how your foot is striking the ground.  Also, there are many good athletic shoe stores, I recommend a store called FIT2RUN,  they will put you on a treadmill, videotape your footstrike, and recommend a shoe that will most benefit your type of running.   Good luck to you.

Answer 4

get up an run