Kids Running

RUNNING FORM by Coach Ed Poirier

October 27, 2007

Dear Ed,
My son is almost 10. He just started basketball practice and has to run a mile at each practice. He runs what I would call stiff legged, almost the way you would think a robot runs but with a short stride. Any suggestions to help him stretch and bend his legs as he runs? He's not at the back of the pack, but it looks painful watching him and I feel he could be faster with proper technique.
Thanks for your help,
Karen

Hi Karen,
Here are a couple of drills for your son that should help.
DRILL 1
Run in place for 10 seconds, keeping your back straight and not hunched over. After 10 seconds, do high leg lifts for 5 seconds. Your arms, and shoulders must be relaxed. Repeat this about 5 times now you're ready for another drill.

kid

DRILL 2
Run in place for 5 seconds, double your speed for 5 seconds, then run in place as fast as you can for 2 seconds, lean forward and BLAST OFF running for just about 2 seconds.

If your son repeats this 10 times, two or three days a week, his speed in every event and in any sport he does, will improve. It is very important while doing this drill that proper form is maintained. Proper form being a nice straight back, relaxed shoulders and arms, and relaxed breathing. This should do the trick.
Coach Ed

Coach Ed is a Youth Fitness Specialist with the Attleboro YMCA. The Attleboro (Massachusetts) YMCA is the first YMCA in the nation to embark on a healthy youth initiative.

Above photo courtesy of Photos by JOhn. Lehigh Valley Road Runners

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