{"id":14667,"date":"2025-06-03T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-06-03T10:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/modernsciences.org\/staging\/4414\/?p=14667"},"modified":"2025-05-27T17:21:43","modified_gmt":"2025-05-27T17:21:43","slug":"improve-running-technique-biology-injury-prevention-top-tips-june-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/modernsciences.org\/staging\/4414\/improve-running-technique-biology-injury-prevention-top-tips-june-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"How can I improve my running? 5 top tips for every runner, from a biomechanics\u00a0expert"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n
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\n \n Majdanski\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n <\/figure>\n\n Anthony Blazevich<\/a>, Edith Cowan University<\/a><\/em><\/span>\n\n

Humans and our ancestors have been running for millions of years<\/a>. Back then, it helped us capture \u2013 or avoid becoming \u2013 prey. Now, we do it to keep fit, boost mental health, unwind in nature, or play our favourite sport.<\/p>\n\n

But while many of us were taught how to ride a bike, throw and catch a ball, or kick a footy, it seems very few people are ever taught how to run. You might\u2019ve wondered: am I running wrong?<\/p>\n\n

Well, the truth is there\u2019s no one right way to run. Your ideal technique depends on factors such as leg and foot length, muscle mass, and even how springy your tendons are. <\/p>\n\n

It also depends on whether you\u2019re out for your Sunday run or running full pelt in a sprint.<\/p>\n\n

That said, thinking a little more about how to run can make it feel easier and faster, and reduce injury risk.<\/p>\n\n

Here are five basics to keep in mind.<\/p>\n\n

\n \"A<\/a>\n
\n Thinking a little more about how to run can make it feel easier and faster.<\/span>\n Rocksweeper\/Shutterstock<\/a><\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n <\/figure>\n\n

1. Feet: how you land matters<\/h2>\n\n

Some of us land on our heels, others on the balls of our feet. If you grew up running barefoot, you\u2019ll more often land towards the forefoot<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n

Debate rages on which is best. The truth is heel-first striking stresses the knees a bit more while forefoot landing places more impact on the calves and Achilles tendon<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n

So, if you\u2019re injury prone in one of those areas, it might be worth adjusting your style. <\/p>\n\n

But for healthy runners, there\u2019s no strong evidence<\/a> one technique is better for injury.<\/p>\n\n

If you\u2019re considering a change, do it slowly<\/a> over several months, ideally with expert help.<\/p>\n\n

As you run faster, you\u2019ll bounce more in each step. You\u2019ll naturally land more on your forefoot, especially when sprinting.<\/p>\n\n

2. Legs: softer landings and smoother strides<\/h2>\n\n

Three things are worth focusing on:<\/p>\n\n