Check out this link on backwards running:
http://www.runtheplanet.com/resources/historical/backwards.asp
Does anyone here use backward running as part of their training? I'm thinking barefoot backward running in grass would be best, you get a foot workout, good stretch on your calves and hamstrings, etc.
We had a thread about this last week, and the truth is that it really helps with recovery and once I started backwards running I found it essential to serious training.
My theory is that if I run 20 miles and then run 5 miles backwards, I will only have suffered the pounding of 15 miles (because 20 minus 5 is 15). So running backwards for 50MPW allows me to run 150MPW with the same recovery I would have if I were to run 100MPW without backwards running.
Pfitzinger said in his book about long runs
You don't jog them, you don't walk, you don't stop to smell the flowers and you don't run backwards.
backwards runner wrote:
We had a thread about this last week, and the truth is that it really helps with recovery and once I started backwards running I found it essential to serious training.
My theory is that if I run 20 miles and then run 5 miles backwards, I will only have suffered the pounding of 15 miles (because 20 minus 5 is 15). So running backwards for 50MPW allows me to run 150MPW with the same recovery I would have if I were to run 100MPW without backwards running.
Yes, and if you run 10 miles backwards each day and only 5 normally, you go back in time 5 miles.
But seriously, a brilliant response.
See then it gets out of whack though, and you're getting additional impact from the backwards running that isn't being counterbalanced by forwards running. Ideally you want a balance.
I think the ideal training schedule would be doubles every day, with one of the workouts backwards. I have yet to attain this however.
Backward (and side shuffle & karioki) running is of value in balancing the body and injury prevention. Overuse injuries occur because of repetitive activity. Stretching and running drills are a couple of other commonly used methods of preventing injuries.
RIP: D3 All-American Frank Csorba - who ran 13:56 in March - dead
RENATO can you talk about the preparation of Emile Cairess 2:06
Running for Bowerman Track Club used to be cool now its embarrassing
Great interview with Steve Cram - says Jakob has no chance of WRs this year
Hats off to my dad. He just ran a 1:42 Half Marathon and turns 75 in 2 months!