Watch your feet! My JogStyle explains the different styles of jogging and how these impact performance and physical loading.

Mannheim, Baden-Württemberg -- (SBWire) -- 08/01/2011 --Who runs regularly or even trains for a marathon will sooner or later be confronted with various styles of jogging. The adequate style heavily depends on the runner’s specific training goal. This does not only influence the effectively and speed but moreover directly affects the physical strain. My JogStyle gives information about different styles of running and how these impact the final performance.

Basically, it can be distinguished between three different running styles, which are defined by the positioning of one’s feet during the roadwork: ball or forefoot running, heel running, and midfoot running. Sprinter, medium-distance runner and top sporter use the forefoot style, which is moreover regarded as the “natural” human style of running. Thereby the foot hits the ground within the area of the ball and pushes off again only after short or even totally without scrolling. The heel is moved upward toward the posterior. Due to its dynamic this style of jogging can be observed especially among world-class runners. Joggers having problems with the calves or the Achilles tendon should abandon this technique as it causes a high physical loading.

Here, heel running, probably the most popular and common style among hobby sporters as well as long-distance, and marathon runners, is much more indulgent. As the term already implies, the foot hits the ground with the heel. Thereby the foot turns slightly inwards and scrolls over the complete foot. This way of running stresses the bones much more and is moreover highly strength-sapping compared to forefoot running, however it protects the Achilles tendon. Most running shoes are designed for heel running and try to compensate the high loading with an integrated damping.

A compromise between forefoot and heel running is the midfoot style of running. As the whole sole is put down on the ground, this is perfectly suitable for long distances. It is more economic and indulgent for joints and tendons – for most people the perfect mix.

Who wants to change his style of running, should gradually train this adaptation to prevent injuries. Moreover, the individual positioning of the feet should be tested in a sports shop to find the adequate running shoe. For a healthy and improved way of jogging the correct footwear is most important. More information about running, health care as well as big running events can be found on the runners’ blog myjogstyle.com by OMRON.