The Cycling Motion – A useful tip for running better

I came across this tip in this amazing book  – Running Within – which discusses the mind-body connection (among other things) for runners.

The tip is simple:

Instead of lifting your feet first, lift your knees UP.  Initiate the movement with your knees – the motion should feel like a CYCLING motion – except not as exaggerated. That is to say, your KNEES will still go high – but not as high as while cycling.

Still, the key is the ‘cyclical’ – almost ‘circular’ motion of the lower legs.

The beauty of this technique is that:

• a) The knees pull the feet effortlessly.
• b) The knees also engage the CORE muscles – a key component of propulsion for the runner. i.e. The Core, if engaged correctly, help PROPEL the entire body forward.
• c) I found that I would land fairly evenly on my entire foot – allowing for better impact absorption. This enabled me to run longer without  experienced ‘foot fatigue’.

 

 

Summary

I found that I could run far more effortlessly – and far longer using this simple technique.

The automatic inclusion of my core muscles – and the FLAT footed landing of each step, also made it possible for me to run faster (without increasing the IMPACT).

I would highly recommend the book above – not just for this particular tip – but for realizing your full potential as a runner.

Thoughts? Comments?