"For Runners, Soft Ground Can Be Hard on the Body" is the title of a New York Times article just out today (thanks to Josh for the heads up.)  The article basically talks about how people think there will be more shock absorption when running on dirt paths or ground, so they slam into the ground even harder, leading to more injuries.  While running on harder ground, their brains tell them to land softer, so they don't slam into the ground as much.  This way of thinking hurts my head.

Runners consistently buy the cushiest, most supportive shoes they can so there will be less impact on their joints.  This is the same reasoning as people who run on soft surfaces to avoid impact.  Regardless of the whether people run with 10" of foam under their foot or run on grass, ONLY THE PAIN IN BLOCKED, NOT THE IMPACT.  Your joints will still get rocked and rolled if you run with poor form on any surface, no matter what you have on your feet.

Good running form eliminates unnecessary joint impact, and allows for a smoother, more efficient stride.  So what is proper running form?

Pose running is the most efficient, least impacting, and fastest way to run.  Hands down.  To learn more about Pose running, check out my running page and start down the road to pain free running!