ACSM Position Stand

Coming from the ACSM this is huge - the paradigm shift is happening.

"The American College of Sports Medicine is the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world. ACSM is dedicated to advancing and integrating scientific research to provide educational and practical applications of exercise science and sports medicine".

So they know their stuff!

The ACSM have changed their position stand on what to look for in a running shoe. In fact compared to 2011 this new statement represents somewhat of a u-turn and will potentially help to knock down a few more walls in the quest to help everyone enjoy injury free running for life.

Remember that just changing your shoes is only the start and won't directly improve your technique without understanding how humans are designed to run. Search out a qualified and experienced coach to set you on your way.

http://www.acsm.org/docs/brochures/running-shoes.pdf

Beach Running Skills

So it's summer in this part of the world and where better to hang out than the beach?! The warm weather and warm sea is very conducive to a bit of exercise, the most natural being running and swimming - and the best thing is you don't even need any special kit! The health benefits to be gained from being in the sea and running barefoot in the water are great, especially from an earthing point of view and from soaking up that all important Vitamin D...but that's another story.

For now here are a few tips to improve your running technique using the beach environment:

- Run on the water's edge in a couple of inches of water. This will encourage you to lift your feet higher and move your legs in a more cyclic motion...if you continue in an old 'jogging' heelstriking motion with the legs swinging like a pendulum from the hips you will trip in the water and fall flat on your face. Well maybe not but you'll certainly kick a lot of water around making running difficult.

- Run on hard sand so that your feet get the sensory feedback they need. Sand that is too soft is hard work and can cause overuse injuries to the untrained and is much like running in cushioned shoes in that it's easy to heelstrike without realising.

- Check your footprints in hard sand. They should be one in front of the other in a nice line. If not then you are wasting energy with too much sideways movement. The print should be of even depth throughout. Deeper in the heel and you're probably heel striking, deep toes and you are pushing off too hard and not lifting the feet enough.

So there you have it, get down the beach and get moving, get fit, get healthy and live longer!

NOTE: The Barefoot Running Coach cannot be held responsible for any abuse aimed at the runner if they are wearing speedos...sensible running shorts or baggies advised.

The National Academy of Distance Running

So the latest from New Zealand is that after several months of travelling and looking for a suitable location to live, train and coach, I have found the perfect spot. Nelson, top of the South Island has the most sunshine hours in NZ and just happens to be home to The National Academy of Distance Running.

I am about to embark on a Post Graduate in Physical Conditioning, focusing on endurance running and the benefits of conditioning through proper technique, correct programming and natural nutrition, among other things.

My mentor is Greg Lautenslager, the world class runner and head coach at the The National Academy of Distance Running - he is very much on the same page as me regarding barefoot technique and we will be working together to raise the level of running in the Nelson area and NZ as a whole.

So anyone keen to learn more please get in touch - all levels, abilities and goals are catered for from beginner to elite!