This common instruction can ruin your running technique

Published 2023-07-23
Quite often I hear runners and running coaches say that the feet should move a bit like a circle or a wheel when running. And there are good things about describing the movement of the feet in this way. But there are also several problems. Firstly, it's not true at all. While the movements are obviously affected by the pace, there is no circle at any pace. It's more like a.... well, should I say aubergine? Secondly, here you get to see what very often happens when recreational runners try to move their feet like a wheel while running. How it directly greatly increases the risk of overstride. But you also get a couple of suggestions on how to think instead to become a more energy efficient runner.

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Fredrik Zillén is an running technique specialist that has over the years helped thousands of runners to a more efficient running technique - from the slowest beginners to members of the Swedish national team in running and triathlon who have participated in the World Championships and the Olympics. Fredrik also writes articles on effective running technique for Runner's World magazine.

Following the success of Fredrik Zilléns online course in Swedish, he has also produced an updated and improved version in English. You can find it here: www.fredrikzillen.com/
You find the Swedish version at: www.fredrikzillenonline.se/

"Fantastic running course. Fredrik is an excellent teacher with a unique approach. I highly recommend this course to runners of all levels."
Kevin, UK

"The best money I have ever spent. Great mix of humour, practical technique and theory. It’s brilliant and I have been telling all my friends about it. I’ve knocked 30 secs off my average pace to 4:30 and at 53 I’m absolutely astonished how relaxed I feel running. It’s also really helped my cycling my adapting similar techniques and visualisation. Thanks so much."
Paul, UK

"Just wanted to say Im 2/3 through your running program and WOW what an insane difference".
Runner, Texas, USA

”I have done the first two audio lessons now. It's amazing what a difference you made for me. I ran 90 minutes yesterday and have never felt so refreshed both during and after the workout, and then I have never run so fast with the same low heart rate. Thanks for that!!”
Update from a runner after two of the six audio lessons

"I can honestly say it is some of the clearest and best instruction I have ever recieved in any topic. After a year of shin splints I went for a run yesterday and was almost in (joyful) tears because I had zero pain, so thank you!!"
Andrew

”I got your online course and it almost instantly fixed my running form. I can prove that by having half an hour faster marathon finishing time.”
Runner, Indonesia

"I knew nothing about running other than put one foot forward in front of the other...and fast. Then I signed up for his course. Mind blowing!... and too cheap if you ask me. Totally recommend it."
Runner

Read more testimonials here: fredrikzillenonline.newzenler.com/testimonials

The course in English: fredrikzillenonline.newzenler.com/
The course in Swedish: www.fredrikzillenonline.se/

All Comments (21)
  • @nelty0987654321
    Another fantastic video, very informative as always. So many runners regardless of level would benefit from this channel
  • @rowalong
    I do love how you talk about running. You've got the same passionate 'rant' about technique nonsense that I do with rowing!! Once I've cleared up whatever is wrong with my hip flexor and can run again, I'll take a look at whether your course can help me get back to speed before the HYROX season kicks off again.
  • @adamread7466
    Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge, expertise and experience!
  • @EricCartmanFTW
    this helped me tremendously thank you! I always thought I was landing below my center of mass, but I was way overstriding
  • @garnster
    thank you, that was very helpful.
  • @andreasv5517
    Congratulation🎉 Frederik produces one oft the best or even the best videos on the topic. Can you tell us something about the function of the hips? Can the concentration on the thighs in the upper area give some more forward pull? Thank you. Great content always 😊
  • @animShenanigans
    Found this video fascinating as an animator. Brilliant explanation. Thank you!
  • @jseales86
    This is pretty cool. I took your course and liked it. Still working on the main point at the end that ties it all together - I won't spoil it for all those that need to buy and take it! A thought though, it would be cool to see what the needs are doing. It almost looks like they swing in a pendulum motion. How does that connect back to the hips and that to the shoulders?
  • 71 years old! My running technique feels increasingly awful. I might be well advised to try “running on my head.” :):) Wonderful video, as always. Thank you.
  • @MrTo1223
    could you make a video about how ankles should flexed and what the feet should be doing while running
  • @moumous87
    The testimonial segment was epic 😂🎉
  • @honza1859
    Great video as always. I am looking forwad to that pushback motion video because the question "what the leg should do when it is on the ground (and just before it hits the ground)" is interesting for me.
  • @SenorNuttypoo
    Nice video. The 3D run capture is a great When I started triathlon, I came across a "Certified Pose or Chi" run coach. Even being new to running, I thought this is dumb and defies simple logic. While briefly connecting with a pro athlete at Ironman, I asked about technique. She said simply, the most efficient running technique you'll learn is during the course of an Ironman. I found that simple yet accurate.
  • @NOHITJEROME
    thanks for the great advice, it is hard to learn to run from the internet but with this channel I believe it is possible
  • @alessandrosarcia
    Hi, I really appreciate your explanations on this intriguing matter. I have severe problems with my calves (gastro), they are always too tight alternatively. I changed my posture to solve a problem with my hips. Hip problem solved now, but I struggle with calf pain. I use now drop-10 shoes. Running technique is really key. Tnx a lot. Cheers