In the sport of running, the physiology of running is just half of the sport. Sure, it’s important to know the FITT Principle (Frequency, Intensity, Time, and Type) so that you can improve your aerobic and anaerobic conditioning. But do you know how to run? This is not a trick question. Understanding and learning the other half of running—the Biomechanics of Running—is equally important to becoming a successful runner.
Case in point―if a tennis player holds the racket incorrectly, they wouldn’t hit the ball very well. If a golfer holds the club with the wrong grip or places their body in the wrong position, they wouldn’t drive the ball very far. Both of these sports require a system of checks and balances from head to toe, to deliver the correct outcome.
Same is true for a runner. Although runners don’t have equipment to contend with, think of the body itself as the equipment. If you learn how to hold your body in the proper form; if you strengthen the sport-specific muscles that are required for running; and if you learn how to breathe properly― you will surely run farther and faster, with less effort and with less chance of injury.
Can be improved, controlled, or corrected
Harder to improve, control, or correct due to anatomy & genetics
Personal choice and outside influences can determine outcome
Put the FORM back into PerFORMance