The human body evolved to favor a forefoot- strike not a heel-strike running pattern. Our ancestors ran barefoot for thousands of years without high-technology sport shoes which were not invented until the 1970’s .
Accumulating data shows that forefoot strike running eliminates impact forces. Therefore, our barefoot running ancestors adopted a forefoot-strike as it makes running barefoot more comfortable. In contrast, our ancestors were NOT heel-strikers as landing on the heel is uncomfortable while running barefoot simply because the heel lacks padding suitable for running. Therefore, from an evolutionary perspective, forefoot running is the most accepted running model which will suit everyone.
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.
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.
Latest posts by Bretta Riches (see all)
- Heel Strike Running Causes Slipped Discs - 25/04/2024
- How to Train Yourself to Not Heel Strike When Running - 24/04/2024
- Cushioned Running Shoes Found to Be Bad for Ankles - 23/04/2024
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