Feet Are Fun

Running is a wonderful way to exercise. Just make sure that when you are running, you're doing it the right way. How do you run the right way? Your heels aren't supposed to be the first thing that touch the ground. Why? Because the heel bone wasn't designed to take consistent blunt-force trauma. You want to land on your mid/forefoot. That is the area that is designed to take your running force.

If you keep running on your heels, experts say that you can develop tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, illiotibial band injuries and problems in the pelvis and lower spine. Let me tell you, none of those things are much fun. I am dealing with plantar fasciitis right now, and it is not fun at all. Running heel first is like having someone smack your heel with a sledgehammer with about 350 pounds of force.

You may have heard by now that running barefoot is actually better for you. Want to know the truth? They're right. You don't want to run everywhere barefoot to start out because you'd mess yourself up. The best way to start running barefoot (which promotes the most healthy gait and landing position on your foot) is to go minimal distances on soft ground. The body naturally can position itself well when you are running barefoot. The foot will naturally curve in a way that allows you to land on your mid/forefoot rather than your heel. With running shoes, they often get you in the habit of landing heel first. Break that habit as soon as you can.

What about when you're at the gym? Are ellipticals any better than treadmills? Which do you pick? Which burns more calories? To be honest, one i not really any better than the other. It really just depends on your preference and your ability. First, ellipticals are good choices for seniors and those who have any sort of body pain (knee problems, ankle problems, etc.). Ellipticals allow you to burn the same amount of calories as a treadmill, but you don't have to hit your feet on anything. However, you lose the bone strengthening that comes along with the treadmill, and you lose the lower-body workout that a treadmill provides. The primary purpose of an elliptical machine is get your heart going. The purpose of a treadmill is to get your heart going, and to strengthen your legs. So, it just depends on what you want to do and how you're feeling.

So, what have we learned today? Running barefoot is better for you, but start slow, in small doses and on a soft surface. Also, never run with a heel-strike pattern. You might as well whack at your feet with a hammer. Running is great, just do it right.

About the Author

Andrew Snow writes online content for MyCollegesandCareers.com. My Colleges and Careers assists people in figuring out if an online education is a good fit for them and assists them in understanding which courses and online schools are avaialable to help them get back on track.