Why Do Pro Runners Kick So High? | Professional Running Technique

Global Triathlon Network
Global Triathlon Network
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Published 2020-09-12
One of the most notable skills of elite runners is their stride, in particular the recovery phase. This might sound insignificant but watch any pro-long-distance runner and you’ll see how they almost kick their bottom at the end of each stride. We want to find out why and if it’s something the rest of us could learn and benefit from too.

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All Comments (21)
  • @gtn
    Do you have a favourite athlete that you enjoy watching? Let us know who inspires you 🏃‍♀️
  • @pmhwong
    Thanks. Best video I've come across on form analysis. Instead of all the BS on how to achieve the high kick, the "high kick is the byproduct of running faster" tells me exactly what I need to know. So what I really need to focus on are my leg muscles and endurance, instead of trying to focus on some correct form I need to be in when I run. I'll deliberately try to run faster in my next 10 km run to see how that changes my form.
  • @tomrankin4530
    Thank you for explaining this difference between elite runners and the rest of us. I was wondering about high kicks and now I understand more about what is happening. You probably prevented me from trying to force a high kick; I will stick to improving my overall form and speed.
  • @kajet666
    I learned a few things, and having been with GTN since its inception I can appreciate the fact that you still manage to find new subjects to explore - and this a highly relevant one! High five
  • @fc4660
    Thank you, Heather. As a new runner I watch other runners for tips including speed and the height of their kick. This helps to know which comes first! I think your form is something to aim for I’ve watched a few of your videos now.
  • @mdr0id29
    Thanks for breaking it down for noobs like us because I was just going to get shorts muddy while trying do heel kicks
  • @ytpadyt
    Timing is crucial - you can achieve high heel only at sufficient high cadence + running speed. It is all about syncro of both limbs. Watch slow-mo of Kipchoge's running..
  • @luluisonfire274
    Thank you! I've been wondering about the high heel lift for so long
  • @timchambers7068
    I started incorporating a better heel-lift into my running recently because I knew it was better form than "dragging" my leg through the stride. I did notice a bit of a speed and efficiency increase on my runs but I had no idea why. This is an awesome explanation and blew my mind a bit. Also, nice ON running shoes :)
  • @nev7650
    You explained that so clearly in a really lively and engaging way. Brilliant!
  • @davidb6961
    Thank you Heather and thank you GTN for producing these high quality, information packed videos. I have learned so much from many of them. The higher kick instead of my "shuffle" is my next focus. 👍
  • @Maxyshadow
    Thank you. Another brilliant vid. I've been wondering about this for ages.
  • @sol029
    This was really helpful. Seems to me the high heel kick is essentially a side effect of efficient running form. I'm so slow it doesn't come into play but I've noticed that as I push my mileage up there are efficiency benefits my body does naturally. This appears to be one for faster runners.
  • @ryanw903
    i love this type of video very useful and informative thanks GTN!!