When most people start having pain doing a physical activity like weightlifting, gymnastics, or a sport their first thought is “what am I doing wrong?” and “how can I improve my technique?”. Then they go to their coach for help or start researching it for themselves. This is a wonderful way to get better and help prevent injury.

When people start running and they get a knee, back, hip, or foot injury they ask “it must be my shoes, what shoe should I get?”. Having proper footwear is a must but the better question is how can I improve my running technique so I don’t continue to have issues. Running is wonderful in so man ways, it is super accessible to everyone, requires minimal gear and equipment, and it is easy to get started.

Any physical activity has a chance of injury, ping pong, soccer, gardening, etc. Using good technique will help improve performance and reduce the risk of injury. Also like other physical activities and sports it takes time and practice to build skill and technique.

The lack of good running mechanics and a training program that relies on volume can both contribute to injury. A coach can help on both of these fronts. Don’t confuse running a lot with technique. Practice does NOT make perfect. Mindful practice with coaching (including self coaching) makes improvements over time.

So, before buying that new pair of training shoes find a coach to help you with your fundamentals in technique and training. You can also check out the book below. It is by Brian MacKenzie and covers endurance training specifically running, swimming, biking, and general training. I used his book to help train for my first triathlon (with a lot of help from Equity members as well).

Power, Speed, Endurance by Brian MacKenzie
https://amzn.to/2YYG0Ut

Do you have a question or comment about running or running shoes? I would love to hear about it, let me know. berek.bryan@equity.fitness

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Cheers,
Berek