Does Foot Strike Really Matter?
The issue of foot strike in running was discussed in an article in the March 2010 issue of Trail Runner magazine. Specifically the article presented opposing viewpoints as to whether runners should strike the ground with the heel first or mid-foot first. I have to mention the story was written in regards to trail running, which complicates things a little bit. The issue of foot strike for trail running isn’t quite as simple as it is for road running so let me tackle the road running foot strike issue first. One of the experts (a Ph.D. no less!) was quoted as saying “My advice… is to forget about the possibility that you’re landing ‘wrongly’ and just let your feet land where and how they land.” To which I reply, bull! That’s like telling someone who’s overfat, “Don’t worry about the amount of body fat you have, if your body is comfortable with that level it’s fine.
