Running Technique Error: Toe-off

There is a common misunderstanding about the function of toes in running (http://bit.ly/ihpSi8). Their only purpose in running consists of maintaining balance/stabilization and perception of support. Pushing off actively with your toes leads to plantar faciitis (http://bit.ly/fuESDv). Dr. Romanov goes over the basics to help you avoid this painful injury and expend less energy!

Category:

Sports

Tags:

• running
• technique
• toe
• off

[ericnastav]

I have never heard of anyone thinking this about using toes alone for propulsion. Maybe people closely associate toes with the ball of the foot and there is an inexactness in their communication. The toes and ball of the foot are the only things on the ground when you push off, so they most definitely play a role in propulsion.

[posetv]

@ericnastav no they don't play any role in propulsion. "Pushing off" to propel a human body forward in running is an illusion.

[zenkahuna]

Nice description of a common error. I used to do it myself. Thanks for explaining it.