Jeremy inspired me to share the charts on heel strike force patterns vs fore foot landing force patterns from Harvard. Many general patterns exist on foot landings such as for totals, but heel landings have a tiny double hump, like a oven mitt. Different running methods such as extensive tempo, running drills, plyometrics, and sprinting have different foot strike patterns. Acceleration and max velocity have unique foot patterns, and between athletes slight differences exist. In lifting, many coach push off the heels to get more posterior chain while you teach a rolling method for many jumping exercises. The literature is mixed with regards to injury patterns but moderation is a safe bet with me. So far the research shows that arch strength is not built up by running with minimalist shoes so I have to see what the mechanisms are with barefoot running that may help keep athletes healthy.
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