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ASK FLASH: Running Form
Posted July 11th, 2007 at 11:08 AM by Joshua Flash Gordon
Section: Running & Training, Injury & Rehab, Columns, Training Tips, Ask Flash
Need advice? Injured? Confused? Overwhelmed? Bored? ASK FLASH!
ASK FLASH is a free advice column to help you with all of your running, fitness and nutrition inquiries. To ASK FLASH — simply fill out the form at the conclusion of the column.
This week we briefly tackle the topic of running form…
Q. I was looking through my race photos and I noticed that a turning outwards of the ankle in a few photos– mainly the ones from the Capitol Hill classic (photo 1), which were taken immediately after a big long steep uphill. So, perhaps the hill had something to do with it. Both photos 2 & 3 are at the finish lines of marathons, which were relatively flat.
Another question is– If this ankle turn is a problem, does this make a difference for longer races? Or does it only affect shorter distances/sprints where every split second counts? ~Elizabeth from Virginia (Pictured)
A. Form is an interesting topic. In general, I believe it is important to minimize any body movements that are not working toward moving you forward in a comfortable and efficient manner. To that end, the fact that your ankle is turning significantly in two of the pictures that you sent me is some evidence that there is inefficiency in your stride. However, don’t let that discourage you …
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The Final Sprint
On September 6, 2008
Jeff said:
Ryan, I too would have loved to have witnessed you win the Gold. Perhaps that was just not in His plan...