Since 2004, we have taught hundreds of runners become more aware of proper posture, biomechanics and technique.  We spend hours practicing drills in the pool, yet very few people focus on their running or cycling technique.  Since running is the weight bearing discipline that creates the most wear and tear on the body, it makes sense that we find the most efficient way to enjoy our runs without pain and discomfort and injuries.

This 5 hour clinic will teach you how to run more efficiently and with less effort, with correct posture and alignment, and with more focus.  This is for ALL levels of runners from beginner to sub 3 hour marathoners.  These fundamentals are understood and accepted as being universal for any distance and speed of running as well as any sport, age group and gender.

The principles of any endurance event are based on energy efficiency, proper biomechanics and injury prevention.  By aligning your body in a forward direction, engaging a strong core, and then relaxing, it is surprising how easy running can be.

Muscle weakness and imbalances are the major cause of injuries and unless these chronic issues are addressed, it is likely that running will be a constant struggle.  Common injuries are tendonitis, plantar fascitis, shin splints, piriformis and sciatic pain, tight ITB, stress fractures, hip and knee pain.

We cover:

• video analysis

• posture, head to toe

• running efficiently and relaxed

• injury prevention

• pacing

• cadence

• stretching, strengthening

• hills

• nutrition  

• core

• cross training

As a sport massage therapist for 12 years, these are three common statements I've heard many times  over  the years, from all levels of athletes. I've been thankful to have known differently and have always wanted others to know the same, whether they are looking to set a personal best, dealing with injury, or just believe they "can't run anymore." It is likely that I would not be running today, certainly to this level, let alone racing, if the following were true:

1. Injuries are inevitable and/or unavoidable and/or just a part of the sport.

2. If you want to run faster, run more and run faster.

3. Running is basically a technique-free sport.

1. Injuries are inevitable?
Change that to: Injuries are avoidable. By taking responsibility for your actions, your body and your movements and committing some of your training time to creating injury resistance within your body, you can avoid chronic injury 100% and minimize your chances of acute injuries as well with increased body awareness, coordination and quickness of movement.

2. If you want to run faster run faster?
If you want to run faster, more often than not you'll benefit most from learning how you can be more efficient with your efforts every stride. Less efficiency = more energy leaking. Running farther = even more energy leaking, more pounding on the body, and greater chance of injury. Running faster can force the body into somewhat better running mechanics naturally, however it is not the cure all for inefficiencies in your running and will only get you so much faster and who knows for how long.

3. Running is technique-free?
Running is highly technical. At least efficient, injury resistant and fun running! Much like swimming, running is heavily driven by body position, mechanics, technique and efficient power production along the ground. Just as simply moving your arms and your legs around in the water does not constitute swimming (as it pertains to the sport,) the same goes for running. Understanding even the most basic running mechanics and being deliberate with movements during running is key to more efficient, injury resistant and, I’ll say it again, FUN, running.

2010 Running Clinics

Contact Sheri at sfraser12@hotmail.com or 519-474-3759 for more details