After a decade of running, Aly, Runner’s World’s director of content hype, says she still had questions about her form. A tip from certified personal trainer and running coach Matt Meyer helped her focus on a part of her stride she had been overlooking.
In a chapter of Runner’s World’s How to Start Running video program, Meyer advises runners to drive their knees up while also thinking about pulling their heels up behind them. Aly says she usually paid attention to her knees but rarely considered what her heels were doing.
She tried the cue on a run, deliberately drawing her heels toward her glutes with each step. Aly reported feeling stronger and said she felt able to push off more forcefully and lengthen her stride. She also said the change made her more confident in her running form.
The program is aimed at people starting to run, returning after an injury or seeking guidance on their form. It includes advice from running experts and uses run-walk intervals to help participants build a routine gradually, while addressing common beginner mistakes that can lead to boredom, fatigue or injury.
Sources: Runner's World.