Why Forefoot Running is Better for the Shins Than Heel Strike Running

Why Forefoot Running is Better for the Shins Than Heel Strike Running

Foot strike pattern while running has a strong influence on rates of loading and tension on the shins whereby forefoot running, especially at faster running speeds, was found to improve foot posture at touchdown which reduced opposing forces and straining engagements on the anterior tibialis (the muscle that runs down the front of the shin). The effect of this dramatically unburdens the shins, making it easier to avoid shin splints as compared with heel strike running. Read more here!

Bretta Riches

"I believe the forefoot strike is the engine of endurance running..."

BSc Neurobiology; MSc Biomechanics candidate, ultra minimalist runner & founder of RunForefoot. I was a heel striker, always injured. I was inspired by the great Tirunesh Dibaba to try forefoot running. Now, I'm injury free. This is why I launched Run Forefoot, to advocate the health & performance benefits of forefoot running and to raise awareness on the dangers of heel striking, because the world needs to know.
Bretta Riches