If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

Vani B Pahwa Today at 9:23 AM
A suggestion after seeing so many runners and addressing their issues : KEEP IT SIMPLE.

So many are confused after reading articles, watching videos and listening to suggestions coming from well meaning friends about the act of running! There is definitely a science to running but it is also an art!

Just a few handy tips to make life easier and take some of that runner’s load off:

1) Running with your natural gait is often far better than making a mess of it by attempting to do what you have heard is “right” or “best”.

2) “Best” is often what comes naturally to you.  “Right” is relative in reality. Control force exertion and absorption and improve upon your natural style rather than try and acquire an unnatural one.

3) Be clear (and I mean unambiguously) about different foot strikes before attempting change.

4) Be also clear about need to change. Why do you feel you need to change your style? If it is not yielding stress and is serving you well I think you can safely focus on maintaining and improving your existing style. If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it. It’s true for running too.

5) I cannot emphasise this one enough: Heel strike is not as bad or villainous as it is made out to be. Mid foot strike is not as smooth as it is perceived to be. I have encountered soft heel strikers and thumping mid footers. No prize for guessing which category has more running pains and injuries.

6) Not all problems can be shooed away magically by stretching, foam rolling and myofascial release. You need to take a back seat occasionally when the body is screaming for help. And it generally whimpers before it bawls. So pay attention. It’s yours.

7) If you have been recommended support of any kind (orthotics/inserts etc) it’s for all kinds of shoes, not just for running shoes.

8) Rehab exercises are meant to be done as religiously as running. No other way out.

9) Maybe space out your events a bit?!

10) Till the time there is confusion, ASK. You are allowed to ask again and again. And  truly listening is a wonderful practice.

Happy running!