5 KEYS TO BETTER RUNNING

The efficiency of your stride and the amount of energy your body uses to complete each stride is directly related to symmetrical movement patterns.  Each weight bearing joint must be in normal alignment and have full ranges of motion.  Muscle groups must shorten and lengthen at specific points through out the gait cycle.  Repetitive stress placed on the anatomical structures of the body (bones, ligaments, muscles and tendons) lead to overuse injuries.

2.     

        WE ARE WHAT WE EAT!

Your body is the greatest machine on earth!  You must provide it with proper nutrition, hydration, exercise and rest for it to perform at its best.  Positive results come from positive thinking.  A positive state of mind is your best training partner.

3.     

        WARMING UP & STRETCHING

It is well documented that a 10-20 minute jog is the best jump starter.  It stimulates the nervous system, increases body temperature while increasing circulation. Studies have shown that dynamic stretching  may be the most beneficial form of stretching.  Begin with slow controlled movement patterns of the arms and legs that move throughout ranges of motion.  Increasing the speed and lengths of the ROM as the body adapts.  This type of stretching also stimulates the nervous system, increases body temperature, and elongates muscles.

4.      

        CROSS TRAINING

Introducing cycling, pool running, weight training, swimming, running on different surface types (trails, hills, grass, sand) are important to make your body adapt to different movement patterns and stresses placed on your joints.  Running on the same side of the road (into traffic), flat surface (track) all provide the same type of continuous repetitive stresses that can lead to structural and muscular imbalances resulting in injury.

5.      

        DEVELOP YOUR SUPPORT TEAM

Even the world’s greatest athletes use coaches and professional support teams that include doctors, trainers, psychiatrist, nutritionist, physical therapist to help maintain and improve athletic performance.  Make sure they are qualified, have a proven track record in the treatment of sports related injuries, and understand your goals.