You Ought To Know Nashville: The Station Inn and The Stone Fox

Good Form Can Save a Runner from Injuries.

A former resident of Nashville and currently the account manager of Denver-based VOCO Creative, Heidi Jewell was a successful freelance photographer in the past and still shoots photos for her clients as part of her job. In her free time, Heidi Jewell likes to run; habitual runners should be aware that good running form can help prevent injuries.

The first key to running form is maintaining a tight stride. A runner’s leading foot should land as close to the runner’s body as possible. Instead of worrying about cadence, stride length is a better focus. Slower running needs shorter stride length; faster running uses longer stride length. This practice helps to keep the feet directly under the knees, reducing stress on the knee joints and decreasing injuries.

The second key is using hip strength. Approximately 82 percent of runners don’t use all of their hip length and extension. By stretching the hip flexor muscles, located at the front of the hip, runners can gain a greater range of motion, important for maintaining the symmetry and alignment that are crucial to preventing injuries. When hips are stretched and strengthened, then runners are better able to push off the ground, gaining more momentum and speed while reducing aches and pains.

The third key is strengthening tendons through explosive drills. This training is typically practiced by intermediate runners rather than beginners and may help people to develop their fast-twitch muscles for better speed, better form, and better overall health, reducing their chances of injuries.