Q: What is the most common [running] form mistake?

A: Over-striding with a slow cadence. If your foot pounds into the earth in front of your body, you incur an impact that’s three to five times that of your weight. This shocks your muscles and joints, putting you at risk for injury.

Additionally, a stride that’s too long will throw your entire body out of whack. If you over-stride, you will almost land with a stiff, extended leg. Your body will be slung backward, your hips rotated and your shoulders twisted to compensate. As the heel strikes, it breaks your forward momentum. You then have to slap the ground with your foot and use a great amount of force to push off again to get yourself moving. This break/push action is both inefficient and potentially harmful.

As Mesa Arizona’s Newton Natural Running Certified Coach, Amy can help you achieve the ideal efficient running form with a personal running assessment and/or group training sessions.

Read the complete article and interview with Danny Abshire at Competitor’s Women’s Running Stride Right.