Health Tip: Use Proper Form When Running

For starters, hit the ground with your heel

May 21, 2012 RSS Feed Print

man running on a treadmill

(HealthDay News) -- Using proper running form can help prevent injuries and make running a little easier and more comfortable.

The American Council on Exercise mentions these suggestions:

Bend your elbows at a 90-degree angle and keep them close to your body, with your hands relaxed.
Relax your shoulders and keep them down; drive from your shoulders, not your elbows.
Avoid leaning forward at the waist, but keep a slight forward lean at the ankles.
Lift your knees higher as they move forward.
Hit the ground with your heel, rolling forward onto the ball of your foot. As you lift your foot off the ground, push off with the front of your foot.
Hold your head steady and level, and try not to bounce.