Hi and welcome back to the Mohsin Salya blog.
You may think that all the signs show you’re ready for a run – you’ve got your running playlist ready and your brand new pair of trainers. However, there are some incredibly common mistakes that everyone makes when running that can really ruin the whole experience.
Certain running techniques can set you up for success, while others take you down the wrong path. After all, when you’re taking part in an exercise that promises to reduce stress, boost your mood and take you to some incredible places, you want to make sure you’re doing it right. Here I share five common running mistakes, so that you can avoid them and have a great run.
You look down
It’s totally normal to stare at your feet when you first start running, as you’re trying to see what’s going on down there. However, it’s important that you put your trust in your coordination and set your eyes on the horizon that’s in front of you. This will protect your neck – when you’re looking down your neck is flexed and your posture can suffer as a result.
Your shoes don’t fit properly
If your feet hurt whilst running for whatever reason, it’s common sense that you’re going to want to quit the programme that you’re starting. The most common mistake is buying a size too small in your running shoes – most of the time we generally need a little bit more room than we think we do when it comes to sizing our trainers.
It’s a great idea to get measured properly at a running store, where the assistants will give you a gait analysis. By having a gait analysis, the assistant can assess how you run and recommend exactly the right shoe that will make your running style as efficient as possible and help reduce the risk of injury.
You lift your knees too high
This is a common problem for cyclists who start running. A cyclists’ dominant muscles are their quadriceps, which means they’re going to lift their knees up too high as it feels natural. In reality, the power should be coming from strong glutes and hip extension. Ideally, knees should always be at less than a 45 degree angle.
Running is your only workout
Whilst it’s true that running is a great whole body workout, strength training can make it feel so much easier. Building up your glute and hip muscles will help maintain your form, enabling you to run more efficiently with less chance of injury. Adding strength to your routine will also help build your running endurance.
You think that you’re not a runner
This mistake is psychological, but equally as important. If you label yourself as ‘not being a runner’, you’re less likely to keep going. It sounds simple, but by adopting a positive mantra such as “remember to breathe” or “keep moving forward” you’re much more likely to develop a rhythm and in turn enhance your performance.
Until next time,
Mohsin Salya