Trying to transition to mid/forefoot strike - what should I 'feel'?

Training Advice/Discussion

6 years ago 10/18/2017 9:25am EDT

I'm easing into it gradually using a pair of 4mm drop minimal shoes (Nike Flex vs. my beloved Pegasus). Trying to rehab a nagging hip injury.

My question is, it feels like I'm either 'on plane' or 'not' (for any boaters).

I.e., I seem to be able run on the balls of my feet or... not. It's hard to describe, it just feels like there should be more of an in between.

I also have the distinct sensation of running backwards?

Is there a minimum pace below which you shouldn't bother worrying about this?

Anyway, I'm looking for any advice or some sense I'm on the right path, and not the path to blowing out my Achilles or calves? This is the biggest change I've made by far.

6 years ago 10/18/2017 9:32am EDT

re: Calories

You should feel slower and feel an injury soon. Donâ€™t change your heal strike, just stick to mid foot.

6 years ago 10/18/2017 9:36am EDT

re: Gotem

You will feel your hamstrings being unused and your natural chain of strength become messed up. You heelstrike because of how your body is tied together. When you change it poop on your body.

Now doing drills, weightlifting, barefoot strides, hills, hip strengthening, core, body fully developing, slow mileage build, etc. That's the poo

6 years ago 10/18/2017 10:19am EDT

re: Calories

I only know forefoot strike, I physically can't make myself heel strike so I can't compare but it feels different at different speeds. The faster the pace the faster my heel kisses the ground to relax the calf. Slower paces my heel is on the ground longer after forefoot strike.

6 years ago 10/18/2017 10:20am EDT

re: roundeyestinkylardem

Oh yeah reason I can't heel strike is I've never wore cushioned shoes for the first two years of my running first year not even any shoes. So now even in 12mm drop shoes I can't heel strike only if I exaggerate an over-stride it just feels ridiculous.

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Trying to transition to mid/forefoot strike - what should I 'feel'?

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