Running Gait: Motor Learning is Velocity Specific

motor learning running gait May 28, 2022

IMAGE: UNSPLASH / INTENZA FITNESS

 

So, you want to change your running gait?

Perhaps you’ve identified some aspect of your gait mechanics that you’d like to change (ex: hip drop, heel strike, toe-off mechanics, that chicken arm thing you have going on)⁣.

You’ve seen a few IG quick fix posts, watched Jeff Cavalier oversimplify it on YouTube, and you even googled “best exercise to fix ______” but no luck……⁣

Motor Learning broadly encompasses:⁣

  • Motor Adaptation (acquiring or adapting motor patterns)⁣ ⁣leading to:⁣
  • Skill Acquisition (lasting change in capability to perform a task)⁣

The “Corrective Exercises” you’re doing at turtle speed may be very effective for motor adaptation.⁣ But…..⁣ ⁣ If you want that new movement pattern to carry over to running, you need skill acquisition in the context of forces and loads similar to the demands of running!⁣ ⁣

Instagram:

Bodyweight hip hinge ➡️ improved extension mechanics in running⁣ ⁣

Reality:

Bodyweight hip hinge ➡️ Single Leg Hip Hinge ➡️ Loaded Hip Hinge ➡️ KB Swing (Velocity Specific!) ➡️ Improved Extension Mechanics in Running!⁣

 
There are specific neurophysiological and muscular adaptations at each step of the motor learning process; for best results, follow ALL steps of the process!
 
 
 
 
 
 

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