New to running

I have been running for about 4 months. I was doing great for 3, running about 4 miles 4 times a week with a long run of about 6. Then I was plagued with knee injuries/pain.

I've researched and read many things about foot strike. As a heel striker I feel that it is most likely the root of my problems. Excessive Pronation also seems to be an issue according to my chiropractor.

After 2.5 weeks of no running I've bought a pair of shoes to help promote a more mid to forefoot strike. I'm looking for all the advice I can find in order to change my stride. The video on this site looks great and I plan to employ the drills today.

Any more info out there please keep sharing. I will be starting from scratch, trying to forget all the bad habits I developed. Back to basics with a walk/run program until I can clean up my mechanics and re-teach myself how my feet should contact the earth. Some of this work will be done completely unshod. Is this a bad idea?

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On the right track
by: Jackie

Doing some of this work unshoed is great in my opinion. Going barefoot as much as we can helps to strengthen our feet. If you don't feel any pain, go for it, but I do suggest doing this gradually.

Bad habits that we have developed over time will take time to unravel and get back to basics as you mentioned. I think you are definitely on the right track as you are listening to your body. You are in the early stages of learning to run and this is the best time to form new habit. Best of luck!

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